Four Indianapolis fathers will be showcased when the Fathers and Families Center celebrate father involvement at its 12th annual Faces of Fatherhood Luncheon, presented by Ryan Consulting Group.
This year’s luncheon is set for Friday, June 17, at the Hyatt Regency Indianapolis and will recognize fathers who demonstrate dedication and commitment to their children.
The four selected fathers will be presented the Heart of a Father Award, presented by Managed Health Services (MHS), at the luncheon. Those fathers are Marcus Murray, Chris Smith, Christopher Wilburn, James Wilson.
One father, Murray lived across the United States with his father who served in the United States Army. He graduated high school in 1997 and enlisted in the United States Air Force and served three years. Murray was married for 12 years and has three sons: Keyante (18); Jaylan, deceased at (16); and Dayvion (13). Since his divorce in 2010, he has been a single parent.
In October 2012, however, he was faced with another life changing event as he was the victim of a random single gunshot wound while leaving a night club, ultimately paralyzing him from the waist down.
Murray openly shares that his condition does not define him. He does not consider himself disabled but rather enabled to overcome his adversities. He said one of his greatest strengths is being able to adapt to changes despite the challenges he endures.
Since coming to Fathers and Families Center in 2009, Murray completed the Fatherhood Development Workshop and became a member of the Participant Leadership Council. In 2011, he became a consultant with the center, allowing him the opportunity to participate in the mission of the agency and contribute to services provided within the community and city.
“When a father is active in the lives of his children, those children have a better chance for positive emotional, social and educational advancement,” said Dr. Wallace McLaughlin, president and chief executive officer, Fathers and Families Center. “The Faces of Fatherhood Luncheon recognizes fathers throughout the city who are giving their children those opportunities for positive growth.”
Registration for the Faces of Fatherhood Luncheon begins at 11:15 a.m., and lunch will be served at noon.
For additional information, visit www.fatherresource.org/.
