Much of our efforts at the Pregnancy Support Network centers on babies and mothers but as we aspire to “restore families,” as our mission statement says, the men must also be reached.
Mike Nelson is a volunteer that has taken that challenge to heart. After the loss of a dear friend, Mike decided to get involved in mentoring young fathers. For four years he has helped with the weekly Dad’s Group meetings. He also meets one on one with male clients as needed. His most satisfying experience at the center was the opportunity to walk with another dad through a 12-week Parenting 101 course. It was a wonderful opportunity to share his faith and experiences.
Mike’s wife of 19 years, Megan, works in client services at the Pregnancy and Parenting Center. They have three daughters. Tori is 27, Alexis is 20, and Lacy is 18.
He has worked in grocery management at Fisher Foods and then at Giant Eagle for a total of 34 years. For recreation, Mike enjoys fishing, gardening, and mowing his lawn. He also loves to cook breakfast.
Geoff Trapani, the director of the TPPC men’s ministry, is thankful for Mike’s commitment to the men they serve and describes him as “humbly relatable.”
In summarizing his passion, Mike shared: “Being here at the Center to mentor fathers to be not only better dads but better men is an important part of strengthening the family.”
by Tesa Strasser
Patient & Family Advocate