The Father Center of New Jersey Announces the 21st Annual Platinum Dads Awards to Honor Community Leaders and Inspiring Fathers
The Father Center of New Jersey Announces the 21st Annual Platinum Dads Awards to Honor Community Leaders and Inspiring Fathers
TRENTON, NJ, March 26, 2026 — The Father Center of New Jersey is proud to announce its 21st Annual Platinum Dads Awards, a premier celebration dedicated to honoring the remarkable contributions of fathers and father figures in the community. The gala will take place on Friday, June 5, 2026, from 5 to 9 pm at the Trenton Country Club, located at 201 Sullivan Way in West Trenton, New Jersey.
This year’s event marks a dynamic step into the organization’s next chapter. While last year’s event celebrated two decades of history, the 21st annual celebration looks decisively forward at the evolving challenges and incredible potential of the fathers and families served by the center.
“The world is changing, and the challenges facing families are evolving. Yet, the core truth of our mission remains constant: When fathers are supported, children and families thrive,” says Bryan Evans, CEO of The Father Center of New Jersey. “Together, we are building a future where every father has the tools to lead with love and strength.”
The 2026 Platinum Dads Awards will honor five extraordinary individuals who exemplify dedication, resilience, and community leadership:
● Peter Bullock: Founder of Hey Black Dad, recognized for equipping men to step boldly into their roles as supportive partners and engaged fathers.
● Vonzell Kelley: A dedicated participant of The Father Center whose story of redemption and commitment to his children through the Skills2Prosper program serves as a powerful inspiration.
● Carlos Paz: Owner of New Life Driving School, receiving the Community Partner Award for his invaluable support of the Drive2Independence program and the Men at the Breakfast Table initiative.
● Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW, CADC: CEO & President of the Fathers & Families Coalition of America, celebrated for his lifelong advocacy for children, families, and trauma-informed systems.
● Dr. Glenn B. Lang: Recipient of the Robert E. Alston Legacy of Fatherhood Award, honoring his decades of public service in higher education and his unwavering commitment to family and community.
Guests will enjoy an evening of networking, dinner, and live music. The event will feature a special performance by world-renowned multi-instrumentalist and vocalist John Clay, who has previously performed with icons such as Madonna, Eric Clapton, and Nile Rodgers.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Local businesses and community members are invited to support the event through various sponsorship packages. Opportunities range from the top-tier Platinum level at $10,000 to the Community Supporter level at $125, which provides a donated ticket for a father or family member to attend. The deadline to register for full sponsorship benefits is May 20, 2026. Ad space in the digital event program is also available, ranging from $400 for a quarter-page ad to $1,500 for a full-page ad.
Find information or purchase tickets/sponsorship at: Thefathercenter.org/platinum-dads-2026
About The Father Center of New Jersey
The Father Center of New Jersey is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to empower every father to positively impact his children and family—socially, emotionally, and economically—while supporting men and boys in gaining the skills to meet and prepare for the responsibilities of fatherhood.