About Us
Strengthening Families Across Florida
Real Fathers of America is a nonprofit organization (501(c)(3) status pending) dedicated to equipping fathers with the support, skills, and community they need to lead strong families.
Our Mission
To encourage, teach, and empower fathers through practical resources, supportive communities, and transformational programs that strengthen families and communities across Florida.
Our Vision
A Florida where every child has access to engaged, equipped, and empowered father figures who lead with confidence and purpose - transforming families, neighborhoods, and the entire state.
What We Stand For
Our Core Values
Integrity
We lead with honesty and transparency in everything we do.
Respect
We honor every father's unique journey without judgment.
Service
We exist to serve fathers, families, and our communities.
Excellence
We pursue the highest standards in our programs and outreach.
Inclusivity
We welcome fathers from all backgrounds and walks of life.
Our Story
From South Florida to a Statewide Movement
Real Fathers of America began with a small group of men in South Florida who recognized a powerful truth: fatherhood is one of the most important roles a man can hold, yet many fathers feel unprepared, unsupported, or disconnected.
What started as informal gatherings - sharing experiences, learning together, and holding each other accountable - quickly grew into a structured movement that serves fathers across the entire state.
Today, our programs focus on helping fathers build stronger relationships with their children, develop essential parenting skills, and find a brotherhood of men committed to the same goal: raising the next generation with purpose, presence, and love.
Why Florida
Why This Work Matters in Florida
Florida is home to over 4 million fathers, and many face unique challenges - from navigating complex co-parenting arrangements to balancing the economic pressures of raising a family in one of the nation'ss fastest-growing states.
Studies show that nearly 1 in 3 Florida children live in homes without a father present. Our work directly addresses this gap by meeting fathers where they are and giving them the resources and community they need to stay engaged, confident, and present.
Leadership
Our Team
William Wise Jr
Executive Director
A dedicated father and community organizer with over 15 years in leadership roles. With Real Fathers of America, William wanted to create the support system he wished he had as a young father.
Jon-Michael Shaw Sr.
Director of Donor Relations
Jon-Michael brings a wealth of experience in fundraising and relationship management to Real Fathers of America. He leads donor outreach, cultivates corporate sponsorships, and builds lasting partnerships that fuel the organization's mission. His passion for connecting people with purpose ensures that every supporter feels valued and every dollar drives impact for fathers and families across Florida.
Tanner Kavrik
Director of Community Outreach
Tanner is a passionate advocate for fatherhood and community engagement. He spearheads Real Fathers of America's outreach initiatives and mission campaigns. Tanner is dedicated to building bridges between families, schools, and local organizations to create lasting impact across Florida.