Our Story
Dads Who Show Up.
DadSquad is a Chicago-area brotherhood of fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, and male mentors committed to active, engaged fatherhood. We believe every child deserves a dad who shows up — and every dad deserves a community that has his back.
Our Mission
To strengthen families and communities across Chicagoland by empowering fathers and male role models to be present, intentional, and engaged in the lives of their children.
Mentorship
Connecting dads with resources, guidance, and a network of men who've been there.
Fatherhood
Celebrating and supporting the irreplaceable role fathers play in their children's lives.
Development
Growing men into stronger fathers, partners, and community leaders.
How It Started
DadSquad was born from a movement already in motion. The Chicagoland MomSquad had built something real — a community where moms could connect, support each other, and show up for their families. Founder Tenille Jackson saw the impact firsthand and asked a simple question: what about the dads?
Not a father herself, Tenille knew she needed the right person to lead it. She tapped Marseil 'Action' Jackson — a community organizer, father, and the driving force behind the Jackson Action Coalition. He didn't just say yes. He built it.
Under the Jackson Action Coalition, DadSquad became an official initiative with real infrastructure behind it. JAC now serves as DadSquad's 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor — giving the organization the foundation to grow, serve, and sustain the brotherhood for years to come.
A Jackson Action Coalition Initiative
DadSquad is powered by the Jackson Action Coalition and based at The Dream Center — a hub for community programs, family services, and neighborhood empowerment on Chicago's west side.
Get in Touch
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