Mayor Shaw Celebrates Fatherhood, Mentorship at The Leaguers in Roselle

Fathers, grandfathers, uncles and other male role models came together on September 17 for The Leaguers' annual "Dad Walk Your Child to School" event in Roselle. About 50 fathers, stepfathers, uncles and other male caregivers participated, walking their children into school and spending time in the classroom.

Roselle Mayor Donald Shaw attended the event and emphasized the importance of active fatherhood. "Fatherhood is more than being a parent," Shaw said. "It is about being present, providing guidance, setting an example, and giving our children the love and support they need to become the best versions of themselves."

During the event, some participants read books with the preschoolers and joined them in classroom activities, modeling engagement and care. Mayor Shaw highlighted the impact of everyday moments: "Walking your child to school can create an opportunity to talk, listen, encourage, and strengthen the bond between a father and his child."

The Leaguers, Inc., founded in 1943, is the oldest incorporated African American social service agency in New Jersey. The organization serves more than 1,700 families annually through programs in Newark, Irvington, Union Township, Roselle and Elizabeth. Mayor Shaw thanked Leaguers Director Ann Marie Quarrie and Executive Director and CEO Walter K. Frye for bringing the program to Roselle.

The Dad Walk event supports Roselle's broader initiatives on fatherhood and mentorship. Community programs including Roselle Men on the Move, the annual Boys 2 Men Fishing Event, and the Borough's Men-Tal Health Walk & Talk reflect the community's commitment to engaging male role models in children's lives and supporting men's wellness.

FAQ

Q: What is The Leaguers' Dad Walk event?

A: The "Dad Walk Your Child to School" is The Leaguers' annual event that encourages fathers and male caregivers to take an active role in their children's education and development. Participants walk their children to school and spend time in the classroom.

Q: When did the Dad Walk event take place in Roselle?

A: The event took place on September 17, 2026, at The Leaguers preschool in Roselle.

Q: How many people participated?

A: About 50 fathers, stepfathers, uncles and other male caregivers participated at the Roselle location.

Q: What did participants do during the event?

A: Participants walked their children into school, spent time in classrooms, read books with preschoolers, and joined classroom activities with the children.

Q: Who is The Leaguers?

A: The Leaguers, Inc., founded in 1943, is the oldest incorporated African American social service agency in New Jersey. The organization serves more than 1,700 families annually.

Q: What communities does The Leaguers serve?

A: The Leaguers operates programs in Newark, Irvington, Union Township, Roselle and Elizabeth.

Q: Did Mayor Shaw attend the event?

A: Yes. Mayor Donald Shaw attended and spoke about the importance of active fatherhood and male role models in children's lives.

Q: What is Mayor Shaw's message about fatherhood?

A: Mayor Shaw emphasized that fatherhood is about being present, providing guidance, setting an example, and giving children love and support. He noted that everyday moments like walking to school strengthen the bond between fathers and children.

Q: What other fatherhood and mentorship programs does Roselle have?

A: Roselle supports fatherhood and mentorship through programs including Roselle Men on the Move, the annual Boys 2 Men Fishing Event, and the Borough's Men-Tal Health Walk & Talk.

Q: Is this an annual event?

A: Yes. The Dad Walk event is The Leaguers' annual program that takes place in multiple communities they serve.

Q: How can fathers get involved in Roselle mentorship programs?

A: Contact The Leaguers or the Borough of Roselle for information about Roselle Men on the Move, Boys 2 Men Fishing Event, and Men-Tal Health Walk & Talk programs.