Become a Captain for Good Dads Strong Schools

Good Dads Inc is seeking volunteers who are interested in becoming Captains for Good Dads Strong Schools. Strong Schools is a before-school curriculum intended to help fathers (including step-fathers, grandfathers and father-figures) be more engaged with their children. The Strong Schools curriculum is designed to promote parent-child conversation on character-building themes, such as teamwork, patience, gratitude, etc. Captains lead the course and help host breakfast in a before-school setting at an Ozarks elementary school.

Retired dads, empty-nesters and grandfathers make exceptional Captains. We are particularly interested in male volunteers for this role because Strong Schools expressly targets dads: We send the clear message that father involvement is imperative to a child’s education. Women can make great Captains, too, but we have found that dads respond best to other men leading the lesson.

Skills Requested: Public speaking skills are critical for this role as Captains are expected to lead groups of dozens of parents and students through a 30–40-minute lesson clearly and punctually. Men who have experience working with children in an educational setting will be sell-suited for this role, but anyone who can command the attention of a large group will also do a great job! We are looking for volunteers who are punctual, prepared and can work well in a team.

Organization is another important skill for volunteers to possess for this role. Each Strong Schools lesson involves a combination of conversation starters, activities, craft supplies, handouts, raffles, prizes, etc. That said, Captains are not expected to do everything by themselves. Good Dads aims to have a small team of volunteers work together to run each Strong Schools event.

Requirements and Commitment: Captains will be required to provide their own transportation to area schools. The Strong Schools curriculum is designed to get kids and parents together once a month at their child’s elementary school, so we have opportunities for Captains to lead a class once a month or more during the typical September–May school year. Captains should be early risers: This is a before-school program, after all! Captains generally arrive at a local elementary school between 6 and 7 a.m.

On a case-by-case basis, volunteers may be required to complete a short training to ensure they have what they need to effectively lead a Strong Schools course. Good Dads will supply Captains with course materials.

Location: Captains do not volunteer at the Good Dads offices; they are expected to arrive at their assigned schools.

Time: Once a month or more, depending on volunteer’s commitment.