ROOTED IN HEALING LAUNCHES “FORGE: THE STATE OF BLACK FATHERHOOD”

A COMMUNITY EVENT CENTERING WELLNESS, LEADERSHIP, AND LEGACY

Rooted in Healing, a Washington, DC based wellness organization, will host Forge: The State of Black Fatherhood, a live community conversation and experience focused on strengthening fathers, families, and community leadership.

Sponsored by District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency and co-hosted with DC Health and Help Me Grow, the event brings together fathers, community leaders, wellness professionals, and local partners for an engaging two-hour experience that blends conversation, storytelling, practical tools, and networking.

Designed as both a live podcast-style discussion and interactive community forum, Forge aims to elevate narratives around Black fatherhood while equipping men with tangible strategies for emotional wellness, family leadership, and long-term impact.

“Fatherhood deserves intentional spaces for growth, reflection, and connection,” said James Jackson, co-founder of Rooted in Healing and founder of Forge. “Forge is about more than conversation. It is about building a supportive ecosystem where fathers feel seen, equipped, and empowered.”

The March 4 event also introduces the broader Forge fatherhood initiative, including:

• Ongoing fatherhood wellness groups

• Leadership and personal development programming

• Career and life coaching resources

• Community partnerships designed to expand support systems for fathers across the DC region

Rooted in Healing is known for its culturally responsive, trauma-informed programming serving families across Washington, DC. The organization has facilitated wellness programming in partnership with schools, community organizations, and public health initiatives throughout the region.

Forge reflects a growing movement to highlight the role of fathers in strengthening family systems, improving child outcomes, and promoting generational well-being.

Event Details:

Event: Forge: The State of Black Fatherhood

Date: March 4, 2026

Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM (includes networking with food, mocktails, and vendor tables)

Location: DC Health Building 2201 Shannon Place SE, Washington, DC 20020

Registration: Linked Here

Members of the media are invited to attend. Interview opportunities with organizers and participating fathers are available upon request.

About Rooted in Healing

Rooted in Healing is a Washington, DC–based wellness organization providing psychotherapy, coaching, group programming, and community-centered events focused on emotional well-being, family strengthening, and leadership development. Through initiatives like Forge and Mothering Myself™, the organization creates intentional spaces for parents and caregivers to grow, reflect, and lead with clarity and purpose.