Staff Sgt Select Jose Bolanos USAF Reserves Honored with Most Valuable Father Award

MIAMI - Nov. 3, 2016 - PRLog -- Staff Sergeant Select Jose Bolanos, USAF Reserves 482ndCivil Engineering Squadron Homestead Air Reserve Base, has been awarded the Most Valuable Father Award Winner November 2016 as announced by Holly Zwerling, Founder, President and CEO of the Fatherhood Task Force of South Florida. Originally from Managua, Nicaragua, Bolanos has lived in the United States since 1983. Bolanos recalled, "I came from a humble family. My brother, sister and I were raised by my mother alone. It made a strong impression on me."

"The Fatherhood Task Force applauds and values Fathers, no matter how busy they are, who make uninterrupted time to play, talk and read to their children. Making their child's safety and well-being a priority," stated Zwerling. The criteria for the Award are for Fathers to be involved in their child's life; support, nurture, interact in their education, and activities; be a role model for positive values by guiding and supporting them physically, socially and emotionally.

A resident of Melbourne, FL, Staff Sergeant Select Bolanos stated, "I have two beautiful daughters ages 10 and 2. There are many values I want to instill in them. Humility, respect, drive, and confidence. Being confident will allow them to be resilient when faced with adversity."

"As a military father, it is extremely challenging to juggle a hectic schedule and remain involved with our children when we are apart," admitted Bolanos. "Nonetheless, it is not the quantity but the quality of time given to our children that maintains our relationship. While I may not always be physically present, communicating daily lets my children know I miss them. I stay in touch with my daughter's teachers and utilize the school website to stay up-to-date no matter where I am."

"When I am at home, I lead by example by going to the library in Miami and assisting my daughter with her homework," Bolanos said. "As a male role model, I strongly believe that being involved in education and literacy sends a strong message to our children and to other parents. I believe our presence is vital for their success. I try to inspire men by demonstrating what a father's presence can do."

When asked what advice he has for other fathers, Bolanos boldly stated, "Make time! We all have busy schedules, however, there is nothing more rewarding than investing in our children. This is a team effort; get to know your child's teachers. Be proactive and become a mentor to your child and others. It's our responsibility to spread this message to other fathers!"

About the Fatherhood Task Force of South Florida (www.ftfsf.org):

An advocacy organization with national influence, their mission is to facilitate the involvement of Fathers in children's lives by developing and promoting programs for fathers, grandfathers, uncles and male mentors/role models related to all stages of parenthood. A signature program is The Fatherhood Reading Squad involving fathers from all walks of life to read, tell stories and mentor students in Pre-K-12 schools. Holly Zwerling, LMFT, LCSW, President & CEO, Fatherhood Task Force of South Florida (Holly@Fatherhoodtfsf.org), 305.812.4000