The Spokane Fatherhood Initiative’s annual fundraiser brought together community leaders, supporters, and families on November 15th for an unforgettable evening that showcased the profound impact of committed fatherhood and community support.
Nearly 200 attendees filled The Venue in Spokane Valley for the “Building Legacy” dinner, an event that exceeded every expectation in both emotional resonance and community impact. The evening raised approximately $175,000 toward the organization’s $200,000 goal, bringing SpoFI within striking distance of fully funding another year of transformative programming for fathers and families across the region.
Moments that moved the room
Spokane Superior Court Family Law Commissioner Michelle Ressa delivered a heartfelt keynote address that drew from her years of courtroom experience witnessing the critical difference fathers make in children’s lives. Her words carried the weight of professional observation and personal conviction, reminding attendees why this work matters at the most fundamental level of family and community wellbeing.
The evening’s most powerful moment came when Spencer Metcalf took the stage. A former felon who entered SpoFI’s programs seeking change, Metcalf’s testimony embodied the organization’s mission in flesh and blood. He didn’t just complete the program—because of his SpoFI training, he remarried the woman he’d divorced and is now launching his own fatherhood initiative to serve dads in southeast Washington. His journey from student to program founder represents the ripple effect SpoFI creates in individual lives and entire communities.
The evening also brought special recognition for SpoFI founder and Executive Director Ron Hauenstein, honored by Congressman Michael Baumgartner through former state senator Mike Padden. The acknowledgment celebrated Hauenstein’s vision in launching fatherhood programming in September 2018—a vision that has since transformed hundreds of lives across Spokane and beyond.
Capturing the celebration
The evening’s energy and emotion were expertly documented by SpoFI supporter Danny Cordero of DCP Photography, whose work captured both the formal program moments and the genuine connections happening throughout the room. From paddle raise excitement to quiet conversations at tables, Cordero’s images tell the story of a community united around a common purpose.
Attendees enjoyed an elegant meal of filet mignon and salmon while hearing SpoFI’s story of impact: over 780 father graduations since 2018, a remarkable 93% completion rate, and programs expanding into North Idaho communities.
Within reach of the goal
With $175,000 raised and a $25,000 gap remaining, SpoFI stands ready to secure another year of programming. The organization’s evidence-based curricula—including 24/7 Dad, Anger Free Dad, and Faithful Fatherhood—continue to demonstrate measurable impact in father engagement, family stability, and community strength.
“Saturday night reminded us why Spokane—the birthplace of Father’s Day—is the perfect place to lead this movement,” Hauenstein noted. “Every dollar raised means another dad gets the tools to break cycles, rebuild relationships, and pass down something better to his kids.”
The event’s success reflects not just financial support but community belief in second chances, strong families, and the irreplaceable role of engaged fathers. As attendees left the venue, the message was clear: building legacy isn’t about a single night—it’s about the sustained commitment of an entire community to the fathers and families who need support most.
Event photography by Danny Cordero, DCP Photography. Full photo gallery available on SpoFI's blog and social channels.
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