Responsible fatherhood is deeply important to Christopher Vega, VP Branch Manager at Provident Bank, who recently joined the board of The Father Center of New Jersey. “I am a strong believer that fathers can be a driving force and lead a generational impact,” he says.
“Being financially strong and educated can elevate many parts of an individual’s life. When fathers have financial understanding and a stable foundation to build from, it makes a world of difference,” notes Chris.
As a member of the Board of TFCNJ, he looks forward to sharing his experiences as a finance professional, and as a father himself, he is eager to join in the efforts to help men achieve economic stability and become better fathers.
Q. What inspired you to join the Board of The Father Center of New Jersey?
The Father Center of New Jersey is advancing and fortifying communities by investing in fathers and young men. I find it truly inspiring to see dads helping dads, which is at the core of what The Father Center is achieving by showing young men and fathers that they have the support and resources they need to better themselves—and their environment and community.
Q. How does your professional experience shape the perspective you bring to this work?
Coming from a background in finance, I know the importance of financial literacy and access to financial resources. In New Jersey, specifically the Mercer County area, the common conversation is around “access.” I hope to be a trusted resource by leveraging my professional experience, which has given me a strong understanding of the impact of fathers in the home and in the community.
Q. What impact do you see TFCNJ making in the lives of its participants, their families, and communities?
Everything I have seen this organization do is building strong men, communities, and families. I have seen men getting back into the workforce. Getting a haircut and a new suit and tie for an interview to increase their confidence. Feeling and looking your best helps you be the best version of yourself. I have seen fathers get training from other fathers in life skills and career skills, enabling these men to forge forward and form their own careers and futures. Most impactful is the hope and confidence they are building in these men. The Father Center of New Jersey is showing men a way to build sustained success.
Why is investing in fathers essential to building strong communities?
When I was young, my grandfather coached some of my baseball teams; my father was the dad to all my friends. Whenever any of them were in need of advice or guidance, my dad was the person they leaned on. My uncle took most of the guys I know to their first Yankees or Giants game.
Three men being fully invested and present, emotionally strong, and modeling responsible fatherhood created a community of young men who are now all fathers. Those fathers now do the same for their children. I believe investing in fathers is essential to building strong communities because fathers have an ability to create a community through their actions.
When I was a new father myself, I remember thinking, “Am I doing this right?” and “How do I prepare for this?” I was lucky enough to have the support and guidance from my father and my close friends. I carry that with me. It definitely impacts the work I do with The Father Center.
