The father who never married the child’s mother and who is the primary custodial parent.

The Love Cares nominee is a married father, living in the home with his biological children and perhaps, his bonus children. He is an active participant in the affairs of his family.  He attends school events and cares for his children.  The Love Cares father provides the emotional and financial support his family needs. He encourages, shows compassion, and disciplines. The Love Cares father is an example for his children of giving and receiving love.

The Fatherhood Forever award is given to a father who is divorced from the mother of the child(ren). Though no longer present in the home with his child(ren), he is in their presence often.  This father avails himself of every opportunity to spend quality time with his child(ren), whether at school, at church, during weekdays, on weekends, at picnics, an adventure, etc.  He is with his child(ren) as often as time and circumstance allow. He continues to provide for his child(ren) financially; court ordered or not. He is there for his child(ren) emotionally and physically and he recognizes that he divorced the mother, not his child(ren).

The Village Dad category honors the man, who is not the biological father, but steps into the shoes of a father and assumes all of the duties, responsibilities and roles thereof.  He provides emotional and financial support for the children.  He is often an uncle, neighbor, coach, teacher minister or counselor.  He teaches, nurtures, supports, and encourages children for whom he has no legal responsibility. He also disciplines and corrects when needed, providing guidance, and setting the example of a good role model. The Village Dad does this out of love, not out of any legal responsibility and asks for nothing in return.  He does not abuse, misuse, or molest them under the guise of love. He genuinely cares.

The Living Legacy Award goes to a father, who is 65 years or older and is married to the same woman 42 years or longer.  He continues to demonstrate great fatherhood towards his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and others.  Like all our nominees, he has no history of domestic or child abuse of any kind.  He has an impeccable work ethic and has excelled in business or career. He is a community advocate, activist or leader.  The Living Legacy nominee has a great spiritual foundation and is involved in his church community.  He has high moral principles and is a man of honor, dignity, and respect.  He has balanced God, family and work well and is a role model for all fathers. A Living Legend!