Jun 16

Jun 16 Fatherhood Honors Awards

Six Fathers Living In Prince George’s County Honored At Annual Father’s Day Pledge Event

Prepared By Tiffany Young

Being a Dad comes with lots of responsibilities and a big role to play in any child’s life. From the joyful celebration of love to teachable moments it's the unwavering dedication and sacrifices that will never go unnoticed. Father’s Day will be celebrated on May 19 and there are six men who are county residents who felt extra special this year.

The Department of Family Services in partnership with the Prince George’s County Office of the Sheriff, and the Commission on Fathers, Men and Boys (CFMB) hosted its annual Father’s Day Pledge event on June 13. The purpose of this event is to bring fathers, young men, women, businesses, and community organizations together to take action and inspire change to prevent violence against women.

The 2022 Fatherhood Honors Awardees are:

Mr. Damian Durham Sr. was awarded the Fatherhood Honors Award for his volunteer efforts with various youth programs in the DMV region for more than 11 years. In 2012, he started the non-profit organization, Brothers From Another, where he brings men and boys together to inspire positivity.

Jerome Jones has spent the greater part of his adult life contributing to the development of young people. As a mentor, coach, and an advocate for life-long learning, self-acceptance, growth, and character development, he has dedicated himself to giving youth an outlet and platform to be seen and served through his mentorship and coaching contributions.

Gino LaGrant is the founder of the non-profit organization, Write Now Academy (WNA). WNA is a free program for children of all ages with the mission and goal of helping children become authors of their own success and understand that their current circumstance does not determine who they are. The foundation of Mr. LaGrant’s mentorship is rooted in service and community, and he committed to doing all that he can to impact not only his children, but every young person that he comes in contact with.

Dwayne Preston is a proud father of two children but understands that being a father extends to the community of young people that he has had the pleasure of meeting along his journey. Whether through coaching sports, serving in his church, or encountering young people in his role as a police officer, Mr. Preston enjoys making a difference in his community.

Mr. Randy Howell was awarded the Veterans Fatherhood Award. He has been a Prince Georgian for more than 12 years. Mr. Howell joined the Marine Corps at the age of 19, working in Administration and Intelligence and serving in Desert Storm in the 90’s. When Mr. Howell was no longer able to work, he began dedicating his time to serving the youth in his community.

Corporal Arthur Grinage Jr. was awarded the Fatherhood Public Safety Award. His community involvement includes assisting with coaching boys' and girls' basketball and football teams.