John Silverman has been engaged in numerous projects and fundraising efforts for Talbert House, a communitywide network of social services, since joining the board in 2003. But as a father of two who learned by his father’s strong example, no project has ignited as much passion in him as the Fatherhood Project.
The program assists men in their efforts to become responsible, committed, nurturing fathers through classes, coaching and fellowship support meetings. Striving to strengthen the connection between fathers and their children, especially for men lacking a strong father role model, Silverman has pushed the program beyond its initial conception.
The 2009-2010 board chair began his commitment to the program by chairing the Fatherhood Luncheon, a fundraiser that honors fathers in the community — including a graduate of the Fatherhood Project. Silverman assembled a committee of dedicated community and business leaders to support the effort. The luncheon’s success in 2010 prompted Talbert House to broaden the program’s reach.
Silverman envisioned a communitywide event that would honor dads and provide an opportunity for families to celebrate fatherhood. Raising private funds through Silverman’s committee, Talbert House was able to host its first Fatherhood Community Celebration on Father’s Day 2011. This event provided fathers the opportunity to spend the day with their children enjoying free refreshments, games, zoo animals, live music and sports challenge activities with the Bengals and member of the UC basketball team. Not satisfied with the estimated 1,000 attendees, however, Silverman is already planning to triple that number in 2012.
It’s estimated that Silverman has raised over $150,000 to support the Fatherhood Project over the past two years. This is in addition to his support of Talbert House’s other programs and initiatives, which provide social services in community corrections, mental health, substance abuse and welfare to work.
How to reach: Talbert House, (513) 751-7747 or www.talberthouse.org
