Thank you, Jessica and Alex, for sharing your insights and wisdom with us for a Presenter Spotlight!
Question: Share a little about how your personal and professional background relates to building great communities:
Jessica’s Answer: My master’s degree is in Social Psychology, which focuses on how individuals influence those around them and vice versa. Bringing that perspective into my work at the Drew Lewis Foundation—where our mission includes supporting individuals and families and building resilient communities—has put my education into action. Serving people directly changes a community, and serving a community on a large scale changes people.
Alex’s Answer: I have worked in the nonprofit sector in Springfield, Missouri for many years. Across the various roles and organizations I’ve been part of, one consistent truth has stood out to me: no matter a person’s background, barriers, or strengths, the presence of a supportive community and safe, secure relationships makes all the difference in someone’s ability to rise above adversity and thrive.
This understanding has only deepened since joining the Drew Lewis Foundation. In my current role, I have the opportunity to support individuals and families as they work toward personal goals and long-term stability—always with community at the heart of it. I also have the privilege of working in communities across Missouri and beyond to implement and expand the RISE program. Through this work, I’ve seen how adaptable and impactful the program can be when rooted in the unique strengths and needs of each community. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch neighborhoods rally around RISE participants, forming networks of encouragement, accountability, and shared success. Whether we’re fostering connections through programming, empowering participants with resources, or walking alongside them in their journeys, the power of authentic, trusting relationships continues to be the foundation of meaningful change.
My professional path has shown me that building great communities isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about showing up consistently, listening, forming connections, and creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and capable of growth.
Q: What do you see as the most important factor shaping the future of responsible fatherhood work?
Jessica: I would say the most important factor is reducing the stigma around men being vulnerable and asking for help. Vulnerability brings change and growth, and asking for help opens the door to positive, supportive community.
Alex: In my work with families, I’ve found that one of the most important factors in responsible fatherhood work is creating space for fathers to be vulnerable, ask questions, learn, and receive emotional support. Many fathers—especially those without strong role models or facing systemic and relational barriers—rarely have safe, judgment-free environments where they can express uncertainty. When we normalize vulnerability and prioritize emotional growth, fathers gain confidence, strengthen their relationships with their children, and connect more deeply with their role as a parent. When fathers feel supported and valued, and are provided opportunities to learn and be present for their children, they’re more likely to stay engaged and take an active role in their families and communities. By showing them that we believe in their importance as a father/dad, we open the door for fatherhood work to really take hold and become effective and impactful.
Q: What is one myth or understanding you encounter in your line of work (relating to fatherhood or otherwise) that you’d like to bust?
Jessica: One myth I’d like to bust in my line of work is the idea that “poor people” are lazy. Poverty is not a result of personal failure—it’s created and sustained by systemic issues. Many of the individuals we serve work full-time jobs, and some even juggle multiple jobs, yet still struggle to make ends meet. I often reference a phrase from Empower Missouri that captures this truth perfectly: “Fight poverty, not the poor.”
Alex: One myth I’d like to bust in my work with families—including fathers—is the belief that “If someone is struggling, they just aren’t trying hard enough.” In reality, I’ve seen how systemic barriers, generational trauma, and limited access to education and resources can deeply impact a person’s ability to move forward—regardless of how motivated they are. Success isn’t just about effort; it’s also about opportunity, support, and timing. By offering wraparound services—including fatherhood-specific support—we help create those opportunities and provide the right conditions for families to truly thrive.
Q: Our theme is “Bringing it Home.” We know that where somebody lives can have a huge influence on their values, priorities and outlooks. Share a little about the place you call “home” and how it shaped you.
Alex: My home always comes back to my grandfather’s house, who stepped in to care for me when my biological parents could not. Growing up in a multigenerational home came with its own challenges and complications—but it also gave me a deep appreciation for my grandfather and the sacrifices he made to care for me. I understand now as an adult that I was extremely lucky and blessed to have him and I am grateful for him providing me a safe and stable environment to grow up and learn in.
Q: What is your motto in life?
Jessica: “…serve one another humbly in love.” Galatians 5:13b
Alex: “Even the smallest person can change the course of the future.” – Galadriel, The Fellowship of the Ring
Q: In your opinion, what difference does it make to families and communities when fathers have the tools they need to be Good Dads?
Jessica: It makes a massive difference! We know that having a father involved in the family reduces many risk factors for kiddos. Being able to make fatherhood involvement into educated and intentional fatherhood involvement can only increase safety factors!
Alex: When fathers have the tools and support they need to be Good Dads, everyone benefits. Their children grow up feeling safe and supported, family systems more easily gain stability, families have shared responsibility, and communities become stronger in turn.
Q: What part of your presentation are you most excited to share with reunion attendees?
Jessica: I’m excited to share about the RISE (Reaching Independence through Support and Education) program’s successes and how it can be implemented in the attendees’ communities!
Alex: I’m most excited to share the impact of the RISE Program and how it provides a meaningful next step for communities supporting families and fathers who are working hard to build a better future.
Q: We’re always on the hunt for insightful and inspiring resources from other great minds. If you have an article, book, podcast, etc., you think reunion attendees would enjoy, please share!
Jessica: Bridges out of Poverty by Dr. Ruby Payne
Alex: The Whole Brain Child by Dr. Daniel J. Siegel
Bring it Home with Good Dads
At the Good Dads Family Reunion, Jessica Smith and Alex Light will present a session titled “Empowering Fathers Through RISE: Building Stability for Stronger Families.” This session will explore how the RISE Program (Reaching Independence through Support and Education) helps fathers overcome economic barriers and develop the stability needed to be engaged, supportive parents. Many fathers struggle with unemployment, financial instability, and high stress levels—factors that can impair executive functioning and decision-making. RISE addresses these challenges by providing structured support that increases self-sufficiency, enhances financial literacy, and strengthens fathers’ ability to provide for their families.
“Bringing it Home” is Friday, July 18, in Springfield, MO. Facilitators, chapter leaders and friends of Good Dads are invited to attend our first-ever Family Reunion. At this daylong celebration, we’ll enjoy delicious food, live music, exciting prizes and fun, engaging opportunities to honor the important father-focused work taking place around Missouri. Register for the reunion on the Good Dads website to secure your spot!
