Kevin Barnett, Founder and CEO of CoolxDad
Location: Greater Houston
Professional Role and Responsibilities
Kevin Barnett is the Founder and CEO of CoolxDad, a Texas-based organization dedicated to uplifting fathers from minority backgrounds. In his role, Barnett spearheads the strategic direction and operational initiatives of the organization. He is also actively involved in partnerships and community engagement endeavors specific to CoolxDad’s mission.
Background and Personal Motivation
Kevin Bernard grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and experienced the challenges of growing up with an absentee father. This deeply personal experience motivated him to create CoolxDad in 2020 amidst significant social upheaval, including the Black Lives Matter movement and the COVID-19 pandemic. The organization's goal is to provide support and foster a positive image of fatherhood within minority communities.
Organizational Impact and Programs
Since its inception, CoolxDad has launched several impactful programs:
- CoolxRuns: A fitness and mental wellness initiative.
- Color Box Holiday Gift Program: Served 500 families in 2022.
- Financial Success and Mental Wellness Seminars: Benefited 80 men.
- CoolxDad Fathers & Sons Basketball Clinic: Engaged 80 children in 2022.
The organization’s wide-ranging activities are designed to uplift and support fathers, thereby fostering strong family bonds and eradicating negative stereotypes.
Partnerships and Collaborations
CoolxDad has partnered with several organizations to expand its impact:
- JP Morgan Chase: Partnered for the Small Business Minority Accelerator competition.
- SLAM and Houston Rockets: Collaborated for a special Father’s Day campaign.
Community Recognition and Future Plans
CoolxDad has received significant community recognition, including a grant from the BIPOC Artists Network Fund (BANF). This grant supported various initiatives such as CoolxHistory, a celebration of Black History Month, and Father’s Day events. Future plans for CoolxDad involve:
- A 5K FunxRun and Sunday Suppers.
- Expanding in-school mentorship programs.
- Increasing the outreach of the Color Box holiday gift drive.
- Establishing a physical headquarters in Houston.
Personal Style and Philosophy
Kevin Barnett describes his style as progressive, always pushing boundaries. He emphasizes the importance of being mentally present and involved in one’s family life. His fashion staple is the Yankee Fitted cap, which symbolizes his consistent and reliable presence.
Kevin Barnett’s Social and Public Engagement
- LinkedIn: [Kevin Barnett LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-barnett-900417a)
- Organization’s Initiative: [CoolxDad Website](https://coolxdad.com)
- Media Features: Articles and features in publications like PaperCityMag, Forward Times, and Clarks.
Contact Information
- General Inquiries, Donations, and Partnerships: [info@coolxdad.com](mailto:info@coolxdad.com)
- Direct Contact: [kevin@coolxdad.com](mailto:kevin@coolxdad.com)
Kevin Barnett's story and his work with CoolxDad offer a compelling narrative of resilience, community support, and the transformative power of engaged fatherhood.
