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20TH ANNUAL FACES OF FATHERHOOD LUNCHEON
Celebrating fathers. Strengthening families.
Join Fathers and Families Center as we honor exceptional fathers and raise support for programs that equip fathers, strengthen families, and help children thrive.
June 19, 2026
12:00 - 1:30 p.m.
JW Marriott Indianapolis
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WHY WE GATHER
A luncheon with purpose.
The Faces of Fatherhood Luncheon brings community members, partners, and supporters together to celebrate the importance of fatherhood and raise support for programs that help fathers and families thrive.
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For 20 years, this event has helped shine a light on fathers whose presence, commitment, and care strengthen families across Central Indiana.
Each year, we also recognize fathers whose lives reflect involvement, consistency, awareness, and nurturing.
20 years
of celebrating fatherhood
$1M+
raised since the luncheon began
HEART OF THE FATHER AWARD
Honoring fathers who lead with presence, commitment, and care.
The Heart of the Father Award recognizes fathers whose lives reflect involvement, consistency, awareness, and nurturing. This year, Fathers and Families Center is proud to honor three Indianapolis fathers whose leadership strengthens families and community.
REV. JAY HEIGHT
Executive Director
Shepherd Community Center
Rev. Jay Height has spent nearly three decades serving families and neighbors on Indianapolis’ near Eastside. He and his wife, Jane, are blessed with six children, Jeremy, Reetu, Jenna, Edson, Jill, and Ryan, and nine grandchildren: Clayton, Zane, Peyton, Noah, Travis, Ruby, Kavya, Maeve, and Camilla. His leadership reflects a steady commitment to family, faith, presence, and community.
JEFFREY A. JOHNSON SR.
Legacy Pastor
Eastern Star Church
Jeffrey A. Johnson Sr. is recognized for decades of ministry, mentoring, and community leadership. A husband and father of four sons, his writing and ministry have often reflected on fatherhood, guidance, and breaking cycles of fatherlessness.
AMAR PATEL
Co-founder & Executive Director
Thriving Families Initiative
Amar Patel has built his work around helping families flourish through relationships rooted in trust, dignity, and community support. Through Thriving Families Initiative, he helps connect families with resources and relationships that help parents and children move toward stability.