Volunteer Dads Pitch in at Thomas Lake Elementary

A group of Eagan fathers are working together to give back to the community through the Dad’s Club.

“It’s an opportunity for participation for dads,” said Christopher Nelson, whose daughter attends second grade at Thomas Lake. “It feels like the right thing to do.”

Nelson works with several other Thomas Lake dads to organize events and volunteer at school functions. All the proceeds from dad’s club events benefit the school’s booster club.

The dad’s club movie nights, which take place two or three times throughout the school year, have been especially successful, with as many 120 students attending each one. Parents are able to drop off their children at school, and enjoy a night out, while the dad’s club keeps the kids entertained.

Richard Most founded the club in the fall of 2009, after he and his family moved to Eagan from Indianapolis. The school his daughters attended in Indiana had a dad’s club, and Most thought the idea could take off in Minnesota as well.

It did. Over the years, the club has grown to include five core members and 20 fathers who frequently volunteer at dad club events. Student attendance has increased too, from approximately 80 children at the first movie night to well over 100 at more recent events.

The club gives fathers an opportunity to be involved with the Thomas Lake community and to get to know each other. Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire is among the club’s members.

Dad’s club movie nights typically raise approximately $400. The dads charge $5 for student admission and sell concessions for $1 a piece.

“It’s been a good opportunity,” said Steve Manni, whose two daughters attend Thomas Lake. “You feel good about volunteering.”

The dad’s club will host a screening of "The Adventures of Tintin" at 6:30 p.m. on May 4 at Thomas Lake. The event is open to all Thomas Lake families.

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