Our History
The Real DadsTM Network is the outgrowth of the award-winning documentary Real Dads-Black Men on Fatherhood (2000) which included commentary by the late Ossie Davis and was directed by Derek Phillips and Nikki Dees.
The purpose of the documentary was to show positive black fathers who were actively involved in the nurturing and raising of their children.
As a result of the feedback from the documentary, it became evident that there was a STRONG NEED for an organization where fathers could:
- tell their stories and share their experiences
- get information about being better fathers
- have real conversations about manhood, fatherhood and family
- feel connected to something positive and empowering
Thus, in 2004, Real Dads Network was founded by Derek Phillips.