Meet Alan

I’m from the Northeast Ohio area where I currently live. I am a retired public safety chief and paramedic. After my official retirement, I found a secondary yet related vocation in adult education. I enjoyed many years as an EMT and Paramedic instructor. I soon realized that encouragement meant much for students. Most gratifying was hearing from a student, sometimes years later, telling me that I’d become a type of father figure for them while in challenging times. My life is yet evolving. A few interests are hiking, kayaking, writing, and public speaking. I am currently considering becoming a chaplain. We’ll see…

Why do I want to join the Dad Letter Project?

A young father was asked what his parenting style would consist of. He freely admitted that his parental effort would be guided by wise words his own father had given him. The words were simple, yet profound: “Never underestimate the value of a kind word.” Growing up, my father and I did not have the best relationship. However, I had an uncle who daily practiced kind words and gave feet to them. I am convinced my uncle’s intervention changed my life for the best. It seems to me that whether we are fathers, want to be fathers, or simply father figures, many of us recognize there are sons and daughters who want to connect. I see the Dad Letter project as a means of remembering those who made a difference for us … and returning the favor to those seeking a kind word of encouragement.