Lena Pope’s Strong Foundations Speaker Series: Pushing Through Adversity

The Lena Pope Speaker Series, Strong Foundations, is a community-centered event series designed to inform, inspire, and support caregivers at every stage of the parenting journey.

Each session features expert, national speakers, educators, authors, and thought leaders offering practical strategies and compassionate insight on topics like positive parenting, mental health, digital life, school transitions, and child development. Conveniently hosted in Lena Pope’s Amon Carter Center, this series is here to equip you with the tools and knowledge to strengthen your family’s foundation.

Speaker Third of Three:
Topic: Push Through Adversity
Speaker: Dr. John Gaines
Date: Thursday, February 19, 2026

Dr. John “Push” Gaines is a former at-risk youth turned CEO and founder of PUSH for Dreams. A best-selling author, nationally recognized speaker, and leadership consultant, he inspires audiences with a powerful message of perseverance, using his own life story to help others overcome adversity and unlock their potential.

Known for his heartfelt, positive approach, Dr. Gaines connects deeply with youth and professionals alike, blending personal experience with a mission to build stronger communities. Named one of Yahoo’s “Top 10 Most Influential People of 2020,” he’s spoken at schools, universities, corporations, NBA camps, and national conferences across the country.

With a Master’s in Business Leadership and a Doctorate in Business Administration, Dr. Gaines also brings academic excellence and championship-level leadership to his work. His greatest titles, though, are husband to Emily and dad to Anorah and Benny.

Learn more information and register online.

Find more family fun events every day of the week at dfwchild.com/calendar.