Seven Virgin Islands fathers were honored for their commitment to positive parenting during a certificate ceremony hosted by the V.I. Justice Department’s Paternity and Child Support Division, the department announced in a press release.

Held June 11 at G & D Seafood in Sub Base, the ceremony marked the completion of the fourth Fatherhood Buzz program — a 12-week initiative focused on strengthening father-child relationships and supporting active, engaged fatherhood, according to the press release.

The Fatherhood Buzz program, funded through the federal Access and Visitation Program, provides mentorship, education, and emotional support to noncustodial parents, particularly fathers. It emphasizes shared parenting access, emotional presence, and the mental and spiritual well-being of participants as key elements in building stronger families, the press release stated.

“This event is not just a celebration of completion — it’s a tribute to the growth, commitment, and resilience of every father involved,” said Ruth Warren of The Mission Project, a community partner in the program. “These men showed up with courage, shared their stories, faced their challenges head-on, and supported each other through open and honest dialogue.”

Participants shared deeply personal experiences, many reflecting on how the program offered a rare safe space for fathers to express vulnerability, build community, and redefine masculinity through emotional honesty, the release stated.

“There are no ‘deadbeat dads’ here,” said program participant Jeffrey Stephen Lewis, who performed an original song and spoke about the emotional toll of fatherhood struggles. “I saw fathers who wanted to be present, just like me, but for various reasons couldn’t always be there.”

Jahoda Benjamin said the program helped him confront emotional isolation. “This program reminds you that you’re not alone and that your feelings matter. Growing up, many of us were told to hide our emotions, but becoming a father is a deeply personal journey with no set path.”

Jonathan P. Tucker echoed the importance of emotional maturity. “The program taught me that challenges are inevitable, but what matters is how we respond. I want to pass on to my children the importance of emotional and intellectual maturity — the ability to reflect and make responsible decisions.”

Calvin Fleming thanked organizers for recognizing fatherhood in the Virgin Islands. “We go through a lot, and often our struggles go unheard. People think men aren’t supposed to cry, but the truth is we’re human like everyone else — we bear the same pain.”

Langley Shazor credited the program for helping him connect with a new community. “When I first moved to the island four years ago, I felt like an outsider. This program gave me a safe space and introduced me to brothers facing similar challenges.”

Senate President Milton E. Potter addressed the graduates as guest speaker, praising their roles in community building. “As I look around the room, I see builders — not of houses or bridges, but of something far more valuable: builders of strong families and stronger communities. If our families are in crisis, our communities will remain in a constant state of crisis.”

AVP Program Administrator Sharon Jackson-McDonald emphasized the program’s long-term goals. “This initiative not only celebrates the dedication of fathers who have committed to growth and responsibility, but also reinforces the critical role fatherhood plays in shaping strong families and vibrant futures.”

Attorney General Gordon C. Rhea encouraged continued participation. “Programs like this make a lasting difference — not just for fathers, but for entire communities. We urge more men to take part and experience the impact.”

Chief Deputy Attorney General Ian S.A. Clement added, “This is progress — parents stepping up, systems offering support, and families growing stronger. We’re proud of every father here today.”

For more information on the Fatherhood Buzz program or services available through the Access and Visitation Program, contact the V.I. Justice Department, Paternity and Child Support Division.