By Ronald W. Weathersby
Twenty six year old Stacey Gregory of Nashville says he was going through a “tough time” when his mother, looking for help for her son told him about the New Life Project (NLP) Fatherhood Program in the city.
NLP’s goal is relatively simple; to make Nashville the best place for a child to be raised. The federally funded initiative seeks to provide fathers in North and East Nashville with the skills, knowledge and support they need to become more positively involved in the lives of their children in order to maximize the health and well-being of Nashville’s families. NLP provides comprehensive peer group services including parenting education, relationship building, life skills training, employment and educational resources, risk reduction case management, economic stability support and mentoring in order to encourage successful fatherhood, and maximize the physical, emotional and academic well-being of their children.
Even in his personal fog which had engulfed his life Gregory reached out to NLP immediately after his Mother suggested he get involved.
“I had to do something different and positive,” Gregory said in a telephone interview. “Street life was not working. I was taking all the wrong routes. So I checked out the program and how they helped. It’s really genuine.”
Gregory is the father of a one year old boy, Stacey Tyrone Gregory, III and describes their relationship as “excellent.” But he knew he had to grow personally if he wanted to become the father his child needs. He says that he and his son are currently living with his mother “for the time being.”
“I have been in the program for about five weeks and I have completed a few programs with them. Since I have been there I have learned how to take time to think about the things I do before I do them. I have also increased my communication skills…I have a new way of talking to people.”
The Fayetteville, Tennessee native was raised in Nashville and attended three local high schools before he dropped out is now planning on completing his GED.
“Once I receive my GED I want to further my education either at a community college or 4-year school. I want to get into Business Management.”
On a better life path now Gregory says his personal outlook for the future is brighter.
“Right now I am looking for better employment and I plan on taking the GED in May.”
He also says young men in the city should look into NLF if they truly want to change their life path.
“If you talk to the people at NLF you can change your life. They will help you. They don’t judge or discriminate. They are there to help.”
If you are interested in the NLF Fatherhood Program call: 615-340-8989.