MEET OUR TEAM
Shon Y. Hart
Executive Director
Shon Hart stands as a beacon of guidance and inspiration in the realm of fatherhood and family empowerment. As the esteemed Executive Director of InvolvedDad and Family Matters Supervised Visitation and Exchange Center, Shon embodies the essence of commitment, both as a devoted husband to his life partner Leah for over 21 years and as a loving father to three remarkable children. His life's work is a testament to his unwavering dedication to fostering strong family bonds and nurturing responsible, engaged fathers.
With over a decade of experience in managing and spearheading fatherhood initiatives, Shon has emerged as a premier keynote speaker and a recognized authority on fatherhood. His expertise and insight have been instrumental in shaping policies and programs aimed at reinforcing the role of fathers in the family unit. He actively serves on various boards, each committed to making a significant impact in their communities through empowerment and support.
At the helm of InvolvedDad, Shon plays a pivotal role in educating and training practitioners, government agencies, and researchers. His guidance ensures that fathers across the spectrum are equipped to contribute positively to the well-being and healthy development of their children. His approach is both compassionate and pragmatic, acknowledging the challenges fathers face while providing them with the tools and knowledge to overcome these hurdles.
Shon's literary contributions are equally impactful. A 5-time published author, his latest work, "Broken Boys Become Broken Men," delves into the intricate dynamics of male development and the critical role fathers play in this journey. His writings not only offer profound insights but also serve as a source of motivation and encouragement for fathers striving to make a difference in their children's lives.
In essence, Shon Hart is more than just a leader; he is a catalyst for change. His dedication to transforming fatherhood and enhancing family relationships continues to inspire and empower individuals and communities alike, fostering a world where fathers are celebrated, supported, and fully engaged in the heart of their families.
Leah M. Hart
Controller
Leah Hart, co-founder and Controller of InvolvedDad, is a dynamic force with deep roots in Flint, MI. Her entrepreneurial background and passion for finance have been pivotal in evolving InvolvedDad from a vision into a respected entity in Responsible Fatherhood programs. Leah excels in financial management, adeptly handling complex budgeting and translating fiscal data for stakeholders, driving informed decisions. Her contributions extend to developing systems for sustainable growth, positioning InvolvedDad for ongoing success. A Michigan State University alumna with a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Michigan-Flint, Leah balances her professional acumen with her role as a wife, mother, and Financial Analyst at Genesee Health System.
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Raena Grant
Program Coordinator - Family Matters
Raena is a mom, wife, and productivity coach. She was born and raised in Flint, MI, and discovered herself in Nashville, TN where she studied Psychology at Fisk University. I have a diverse background in social work fields. Including case management, program development, and helping people find time to live in their purpose. She finds so much joy is found in watching people prove themselves wrong. She has a passion for cheering people on while they navigate the nuances of day to day life.
George E. Conway
Director of Mental Health Services
George Conway II is the owner/operator of ReImage Collective Counseling LLC a fully licensed and insured counseling agency that provides therapy for individuals and families! A licensed social worker, George has spent 17 years working in the Human service field via education, the Michigan Department of Corrections and foster care. George is also currently contracted with multiple schools in the Greater Flint area providing a variety of mental health services to at risk youth, their families and surrounding communities. George received his undergraduate degree in Social work from the University of Michigan-Flint and his graduate degree in Social work from Eastern Michigan University. George, his wife and their 4 children currently reside in Flint Twp.
Todd Womack
Lead Facilitator
Todd Womack is a social worker by profession. He currently serves as a lecturer and academic advisory at the University of Michigan- Flint in the Social Work
Department. He also serves as the Pastor of Community Connections at Flint Central Church of the Nazarene. In addition he is Co-Pastor of The Underground Church which is a church for Netizens that speaks boldly to the issues of injustice in the world and framed in the orientation of Peacebuilding work. His passion for racial equity and equality is evident in his continued dedication and work towards strengthening Flint neighborhoods and supporting realistic and solution focused experiences. He and his wife Roshanda are the proud parents of 3 boys: Ngozi (blessing), Osei (noble), and Ande (unwavering).
Chuck Hill
Fatherhood Practitioner
Flint native Chuck Hill is a dedicated husband, father of six, and passionate community advocate. As a certified Domestic Violence Practitioner, Fatherhood Coach, and motivational speaker, he's spent over seven years guiding youth towards success. Chuck's latest project, "The Toolbox," shares essential life skills to help others overcome challenges and reach their full potential. His steadfast commitment to family and community has made him a respected figure, impacting lives through his work with InvolvedDad.
Trace Fisher
Fatherhood Practitioner - PROTECT Program
Trace Fisher is a leader deeply committed to serving others, embodying the principles of intentional leadership and community empowerment. As a father of two boys and someone who was raised by a single mother, Trace possesses a profound understanding of the power and impact of fatherhood. His dedication to mentorship, especially among the youth, reflects his passion for coaching and guiding the next generation. Trace's approach to leadership is not just about individual guidance but also about strengthening the community as a whole. His efforts to empower others highlight his belief in the collective power of supportive, engaged communities. This blend of personal experience and commitment to mentorship makes Trace a powerful advocate for positive change and an inspirational figure in any community-focused initiative.
Melvin Eckles
Fatherhood Practitioner - PROTECT Program
Melvin has extensive experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment across numerous communities in southeast Michigan. He has obtained certifications as a Certified Peer Support Specialist, Recovery Coach, and Community Health Worker. He is also certified in conducting various types of group support, including Prime for Life and the Duluth Curriculum for Domestic Violence Prevention. Melvin's journey began with volunteering at a homeless shelter in Pontiac, MI. From there, he worked with various agencies in Oakland County, where he played a key role in starting a substance use program and supervising other peer supports on the State Peer Warm Line. He has spoken in Washington, D.C., on pressing mental health topics, and served as a CPSS at Genesee Health Systems in Genesee County. Now, he is a Fatherhood Practitioner at InvolvedDad.
Throughout his journey, Melvin shares his experiences openly and takes every opportunity to build bridges between families and society. He is dedicated to ensuring that every father he serves can access the resources needed to create the best possible home life.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
James Jackson, Sr.
Board President and Fatherhood Mentor Coordinator
James Jackson, Sr. Board President and Fatherhood Mentor Coordinator, is an advocate and driving force supporting InvolvedDad's impactful journey since its inception in 2015, as the board chair and Mentor Coordinator. James doesn't just lead; he ignites change. Within state government corridors, he's a catalyst, orchestrating inclusion, pioneering workforce programs and spearheading diversity recruitment initiatives. His legacy extends beyond professional achievements. James is the proud father behind two remarkable young leaders, guiding them through academic excellence and instilling the values of community service. His passion fuels advocacy for youth, championing post-secondary pathways and crucial soft skills essential for the 21st-century workforce.
Patricia Kutil
Secretary
Patty Kutil is a wife and mother of three adult children. After graduating from Michigan State University with a degree in Packaging, she worked in Manufacturing Management before becoming a full time mother, community leader, and volunteer. Some of her past experience includes serving as president of both her neighborhood association and the athletic boosters club of her kids’ high school, the fundraising coordinator of the Community Sharing Outreach Center in Highland Township, Michigan, and board member of FACES, which worked to provide academic opportunity to special needs students in parochial schools. Currently, in addition to InvolvedDad, Patty is on the board of Building Bridges, an organization that allows students in Pontiac to receive excellent educational opportunities and mentorship.
Patty is driven by the belief that all people, and children in particular, deserve the opportunity to succeed. Her focus has been on working on projects that “level the playing field”. She believes that supporting strong families and the involvement of both parents in their children’s lives is critical to giving them the tools they need to thrive.
Jacolbi Jarrett
Facilitator and Treasurer
Jacolbi Jarrett was born and raised in Flint, MI and is the husband to his wonderful wife, Stephanie. With the addition of two sons Evan and Ethan, the fantastic four proudly consider themselves Team Jarrett. As a family man of faith, Jacolbi strives to lead by example with compassion and an emphasis on work ethic.
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Graduate of Kettering University where he studied Electrical Engineering. Currently he is a Program Manager for an automotive manufacturing supplier in Michigan.
Jacolbi and his wife Stephanie launched a successful home-based customizing screen printing business. Jacolbi's success is anchored in his faith and is revealed through his love for his family.
Shonte' Smith
Board Member
Shonte’ is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Over the past eight years, she has worked diligently in Genesee County to increase breastfeeding rates. She has worked in the hospital as a lactation intern and at various pediatric and obstetrician clinics, promoting and educating women about breastfeeding. She facilitates local support groups, works with community partners, provides birth and postpartum doula services, and completed training to be a childbirth educator. Shonte' has worked with hundreds of families through education, support, and empowerment. She prides herself in caring, professional, efficient, and trustworthy care. Normalizing breastfeeding is her passion. Her goal is to provide culturally competent care for all families.
Hubert Roberts
Board Member
Hubert L. Roberts was born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in Flint, Michigan. He graduated Highschool in Flint, MI, Bally Midwest Tech Novi, MI, and TOPS certified mentor program and is a Strategic reunification trainer. Roberts has created several mentoring programs and worked with Flint Community Schools for 15 years. He has worked in television and has a documentary and comic book about his life in 2016. He desires to be a part of the solution to make his community thrive and nourish the freedom of people.
Johnny Knott
Board Member
Johnny Knott is a father of three and have been married to Greta Knott for 38 years. Johnny served in the armed forces (US Army) from 1982 to 1986. After leaving the military he moved to Flint, MI where he served as a Deacon at Divine Grace Ministries. Johnny has always had a passion to serve people, particularly men. So, in 2012 Johnny started working with incarcerated men at Thumb Correctional Facility in, Lapeer, MI. Currently he works as a Drug court specialist helping clients overcome life addition in their lives.
Lee Miner
Board Member
Lee Miner, the owner of a successful sales agency in the NJ/NY area, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to community service. As a former Board Member of Big Brothers Big Sisters of NYC, Lee has demonstrated a steadfast dedication to youth mentorship. His family's involvement with The Children's Village, NY, further underscores his collective passion for supporting young people. Lee is not only a successful business leader but also a devoted husband to Pam and a proud father to Julie and Charlie. His passion for helping youth is a guiding force in both his personal and professional life, making him a valued member of InvolvedDad.
Kris Johns
Board Member
Kris Johns, with his expertise in Digital Marketing and Community Outreach, brings a unique blend of online engagement and community connectivity to InvolvedDad. His innovative digital strategies and commitment to community values are poised to significantly enhance InvolvedDad's outreach, ensuring impactful online presence and fostering deeper community relationships. His skill set is key to advancing our mission in empowering and supporting fathers and families.