Bringing Cool Dads Together in Baytown

Fatherhood has the power to shape lives, strengthen families, and build communities. However, fathers lack the support and resources needed to excel in their roles. That’s why Baytown is taking a groundbreaking step by partnering with CoolxDad as the lead agency in the City’s fatherhood initiative, a transformative effort designed to empower fathers, support families, and build a stronger community.

Baytown’s commitment to fatherhood began in 2023, when the Fatherhood Initiative was launched. Through research, focus groups, and a fatherhood summit, the City worked to understand the challenges fathers face and identify the right organization to lead this effort. That search led to CoolxDad, and at a recent city council meeting, the initiative quickly gained unanimous support.

The conversation wasn’t about whether Baytown needed this initiative, but rather how quickly it could start making an impact.

A Mission of Connection

CoolxDad is led by CEO Kevin Barnett, who understands firsthand what it means to grow up without a father.

Kevin said, “I knew the emptiness and lack of a father at an early age. I was fortunate to have a community that helped me through it.”

At its core, CoolxDad’s mission is about connection, providing fathers with mentorship, education, and a supportive space where they can be vulnerable, learn, and grow alongside their children. CoolxDad has found success with programs like CoolTips, that offers practical fatherhood advice, and Sunday Suppers where families learn how to prepare meals together, creating new traditions and bonding experiences.

A Citywide Effort

During an emotional meeting with councilmembers, expressed overwhelming support of this initiative.

Councilwoman Sarah Graham, who grew up without a father, shared her personal experience. She said, “I didn’t know what I was missing until I got married and watched my husband and our children. A healthy father relationship can change the trajectory of a child and everyone who witnesses it.”

Councilman James Franco added, “One of the greatest things you can hear from a child is the word ‘Dad.’ I applaud the efforts to bring this to Baytown.”

Councilman Ken Griffith emphasized the broader impact saying, “Fathers are important and strong men are needed.”

Even Mayor Charles Johnson, who fought to secure opioid settlement funds for community programs, admitted this wasn’t how he originally expected the funds to be used. Instead, he said it’s going to something more powerful and is an essential investment.

He said, “To see this money going toward something that strengthens families and creates a foundation for the community is wonderful.”

The Future of CoolxDad in Baytown

The initiative is already gaining momentum, with plans to focus on a work program first, followed by expansion of the CoolxDad mission. Covestro is a local corporate partner, but the goal is to bring more area businesses and leaders on board.

By the end of the year, CoolxDad and its partners will measure the program’s success, refine its approach if needed, and continue growing. Kevin is confident Baytown will see a real change. “With CoolxDad coming here and leading this effort, I know that you will see results with the fathers in this city,” he said.

Want to get involved? Whether you’re a father seeking support, a mentor eager to give back, or a community leader looking to make an impact, visit baytown.org/fatherhood to learn more.

Also, don’t miss the upcoming issue of the Baytown Voice magazine, featuring an in-depth article on Kevin Barnett and his CoolxDad journey.