The upcoming 2025 Parents Next Gen Awards will honor 40 impactful figures—ranging from advocates and innovators to community leaders—who have dedicated their efforts to improving the lives of children and families this past year.
When Joe Gonzales welcomed his son, he quickly realized that the early days of fatherhood could be surprisingly isolating. Struggling to find a supportive community for fathers to share insights—from teething remedies to the emotional challenges of parenting—he took matters into his own hands. Thus, the Brooklyn Stroll Club was born. Gonzales’ commitment to fostering connection among dads is precisely why he has been recognized as a Parents Next Gen winner.
Initially, Gonzales introduced the concept on TikTok, where it resonated widely and garnered thousands of views and interactions from fathers seeking camaraderie. What was once a simple idea has evolved into a vibrant community of over 1,500 dads, who engage both online and in person. Amidst sleepless nights and midnight feedings, the Brooklyn Stroll Club has emerged as a sanctuary for dads at various stages of fatherhood. It provides a platform to share experiences, exchange advice, and forge meaningful relationships based on shared journeys.
We had the opportunity to speak with Gonzales about the Brooklyn Stroll Club’s future and his aspiration for a generation of fathers characterized by compassion and connection.
What inspired you? How did this start?Â
I launched the Brooklyn Stroll Club in 2024 after becoming a dad, which completely transformed my life. We started out as a handful of dads meeting in the park, but it quickly grew to over 1,500 members who interact daily in our online community. They share their experiences and seek encouragement. Our monthly meetups are designed to boost dads’ confidence—many are attending for the first time with their children.
How are you raising your son to be a changemaker?Â
I’m teaching my son to be a changemaker through our actions—by showing him that his parents take risks, love deeply, and follow their passions. Even at a young age, he observes us and learns. I aim to model the behavior that will inspire confidence and initiative in him as he grows.
Are there fathers at different stages of their journeys in the community?
It’s been rewarding as a dad of a one-year-old to witness the diversity of experiences in our community. Some dads are just learning they’re expecting, while others are navigating the challenges of newborns or raising older children. This mix creates an enriching environment where we can learn from each other. The collective journey of fatherhood continually evolves, making it essential to connect with others who share similar experiences.
Our goal is to uplift not only newcomers but also ourselves as we learn and grow together. Every person’s experience is uniquely valuable, and our community fosters that connection.
What is one profound takeaway from your conversations with other dads?
A sentiment I’ve repeatedly encountered in the community is discovering how valuable the support network is. The realization that vulnerability fosters growth is pivotal. Embracing this openness can help shape the next generation of fathers.
Will your meet-ups evolve to include gatherings without children?
We aspire to create experiences not only for dads with their children but also for them to focus on mental health, self-care, and the complexities of fatherhood. We’ve already conducted boxing meet-ups and have plans for activities like meditation classes.
Our goal is to explore ways to serve ourselves better, which in turn allows us to serve our families and communities more effectively. Bringing these questions to light will help us navigate the intricacies of fatherhood. Many dads tend to prioritize others, sometimes at their own expense, which is a crucial issue to address.
Beyond socializing with kids, how do these meet-ups foster deeper connections among fathers?
Yes, that’s a crucial aspect. The discussions among dads extend beyond mere social pleasantries; they delve into real issues like meal planning or evening routines. While the chaos of parenting can be overwhelming, it’s also a source of camaraderie and joy.
The Brooklyn Stroll Club highlights an important truth: that fatherhood is a journey best navigated together. By fostering a supportive environment, it empowers fathers to embrace the complexities of parenting with confidence and empathy.
