REACHUP’s 2026 Affirming Fatherhood Conference to Spotlight Fathers as Protectors, Leaders
Sold-out Tampa conference will bring fathers, professionals and community advocates together under the theme “Fatherhood: Built to Protect”
Tampa, Fla. Aug. 28, 2026 — REACHUP, Inc. will host its 2026 Affirming Fatherhood Conference on Friday, Sept. 25, bringing fathers, father figures, professionals, advocates and community leaders together to highlight the critical role men play in strengthening children and families.
The sold-out conference, themed “Fatherhood: Built to Protect,” will focus on the role of fathers and father figures as protectors, caregivers, mentors and advocates.
The conference will feature discussions addressing family stability, child safety, health and the challenges facing today’s families.
Featured speakers include The Honorable Judge Daryl Manning of the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court, presenting “Transforming the Lives of Fathers, in Turn, Transforming Families”; Jeff Mortensen, an executive leader in healthcare and MedTech, discussing the effects of screens on children’s eyes; and Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Division, Human Trafficking Section, who will provide information to help families protect children from human trafficking.
Returning AFC guest Rod Z, a comedian, will also participate, highlighting the role of humor and connection in strengthening families.
“When we invest in fathers, we strengthen families—and when families are stronger, entire communities benefit,” said Nicola Bailey, President and CEO of REACHUP.
REACHUP also offered two scholarships to expand access to the conference: the Rev. Dr. James N. Wilkerson, Jr. AFC Scholarship and the Deborah A. Austin, Ph.D. Affirming Fatherhood Conference Legacy Scholarship.
“This conference is for anyone who believes fathers are essential to strong families,” said Michael Morgan, REACHUP’s Male Involvement Network Manager. “That includes fathers and father figures, professionals serving men and families, advocates, mentors and community members who believe in the power of positive fatherhood.”
The conference will be held at the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County, 1002 E. Palm Ave., Tampa, Florida 33605.
About REACHUP
REACHUP, Inc. is a nonprofit organization committed to driving preventable infant and maternal mortality rates to zero by strengthening and supporting motherhood, fatherhood and familyhood through education, outreach, care coordination, advocacy and community partnerships.