Meet Donald Pearson: Father, Chef, Graduate, and Black Fathers Inc. Black Dad of the Month
At United And Guided, we know that strong communities are built on strong families—and that includes celebrating the incredible fathers in our midst. This month, we are proud to recognize Donald Pearson as our Black Dad of the Month.
Donald is a father of three—ages 18, 8, and 5—and a vibrant example of the strength, compassion, and dedication it takes to lead a family with love and purpose. As the partner of one of our valued United And Guided team members, Donald's presence has been felt not only at home, but within the broader community through his involvement in events like Self-Care Sundays at Tahoe Park, where his family has enjoyed quality time, connection, and wellness support.
When asked what fatherhood means to him, Donald didn’t hesitate:
“Fatherhood is the toughest, most rewarding hood you can be a part of. It’s about guiding, breaking cycles, creating new traditions—and doing all of that while staying vulnerable and present.”
One of his proudest moments as a father? When his children watched him cross the stage and graduate from mechanic school. It was a full-circle moment, where his hard work and perseverance were witnessed by the ones who matter most.
Donald’s approach to fatherhood is both intentional and joyful. Every morning begins with hugs and custom handshakes for each of his children and his wife. As the household’s head chef, he prepares meals and then leads the kids in “sun time”—a grounding outdoor stretch to start the day. From school drop-offs to nighttime story sessions, Donald brings care and structure to his family’s rhythm.
He also leans into emotional and spiritual self-care:
“I rely on my faith and my desire to be a better version of myself. I’ve learned to be kind to myself and reach out to my support network.”
Donald models community-minded fatherhood, staying informed on current events, volunteering when he can, and connecting neighbors with resources—often thanks to his wife, whom he proudly calls the "Resource Queen."
His father and father-in-law are his role models—two military men who forged their own paths and taught him what resilience, fairness, and generosity look like.
And when it’s time to let loose? Funnel cakes and baked treats are a family favorite.
“It gets messy. We laugh. We bond.”
Join us in celebrating Donald Pearson, a dad who's breaking cycles, baking joy, and building legacy!
Nominate the next Black Dad of the Month or learn more about our fatherhood support services at unitedandguided.org/fatherhood.