The Strength of a Godly Father

By Dr. Jeff Padgett
Chief Communications Officer, Paul Anderson Youth Home

As Father’s Day approaches, we pause to honor the men who have shaped our lives through love, sacrifice, leadership, and faith. At the Paul Anderson Youth Home, Father’s Day carries a special meaning because we reflect not only on earthly fathers, but also on the incredible example left by our founder, Paul Anderson.

Paul Anderson was known around the world for his unmatched strength, but those who truly knew him understood that his greatest strength came from his faith in Jesus Christ. Long before he became a world champion weightlifter and Olympic gold medalist, Paul made the decision to follow Christ wholeheartedly. That faith became the foundation for how he lived, led, and loved others.

Paul believed that a father’s role extended far beyond providing for a family. He believed fathers were called to lead by example — to show integrity, compassion, discipline, humility, and unwavering faith. He understood that young people are not only listening to what we say, but they are also watching how we live.

The Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 11:1, “Follow me as I follow Christ.” That scripture perfectly reflects the life and mission of Paul Anderson. He desired for others to see Christ through the way he lived his life. Whether mentoring young men, encouraging families, or serving those in need, Paul consistently pointed others back to Jesus.

Today, that same mission continues at PAYH. Every day, we strive to help young men encounter positive role models who lead with faith, character, and purpose. We recognize the importance of fathers, mentors, grandfathers, pastors, coaches, and all men who choose to invest in the next generation.

Fatherhood is not about perfection — it is about presence, consistency, and leading others toward Christ. The greatest legacy a father can leave is not measured in accomplishments or possessions, but in the example of a life faithfully lived for God.

This Father’s Day, we celebrate and thank the men who continue to lead their families with strength, wisdom, and faith. May we all strive to live in such a way that others can confidently say, “I see Christ in them.”

From all of us at the Paul Anderson Youth Home, Happy Father’s Day.

Strength For The Day

Each week, PAYH shares a devotional; “Strength For The Day,” by Chaplain (Col) Stephen W. Leonard, USA, Ret. In addition to being a retired US Army Chaplain, he is also the husband of our Co-Founder, Glenda Anderson Leonard. His writing is both moving and inspiring and will most certainly lift your spirit and encourage you in your walk with Jesus. To receive his weekly writing, you can subscribe online at payh.org. You can also read past writings by clicking here.

Congratulations Cameron & Dillon

Join us as we celebrate Cameron’s and Dillon’s graduation from the PAYH Program. Their hard work, perseverance, and personal growth have been inspiring, and we are proud of the young men they have become.

Rain…What Rain?

The PAYH crew crushed a strong training ride for the Bike Ride, logging 33.63 miles in just under 2 hours at a steady 16.9 mph, even powering through a little drizzle on the way back. Solid effort, stronger together, and another great day of preparation in the books.

Planting Seeds of Hope: Celebrating the Goodness Garden

We are deeply grateful to the Southeast Produce Council, Inc., Shuman Farms, Nickey Gregory Company, and Eric Ayers of OSSID for their dedicated support of the Paul Anderson Youth Home. Their investment in these young men goes far beyond financial contributions, helping create opportunities that foster growth, responsibility, and hope for the future.

Recently, we were honored to celebrate the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Goodness Garden at PAYH, a project made possible through the generosity and partnership of these valued supporters. The garden will serve as a place where young men can learn valuable life skills, experience the rewards of hard work, and cultivate a sense of purpose and stewardship.

We sincerely appreciate their commitment to our mission and their belief in the potential of every young man we serve. Together, we are planting seeds that will yield a lasting harvest for generations to come.

Hands at Work and Hearts on a Mission

The boys had a great time at Athens Y Camp last week. From hard work projects around camp to making memories together along the way, the guys truly worked hard and played hard!

Step Inside the Mission

We’re excited to share something special with you—our brand-new Paul Anderson Youth Home Virtual Tour Video!

Step inside and see firsthand the life-changing work happening every day. From our facilities to the programs that empower young men to grow, learn, and succeed, this video offers a powerful look at the heart of our mission.

👉 Click on the picture to watch the video and experience the difference for yourself.

Help us spread the word.

If this story inspires you, we invite you to take one simple step that makes a big impact:

✅ Share the video with your friends, family, and network

✅ Post it on social media

✅ Help us reach more people who believe in transforming lives

Every share helps expand awareness and opens the door for more support, more opportunities, and more changed lives.

Together, we can make sure this message reaches as far as possible.

Big Swings With an Even Bigger Impact

The 2026 Paul Anderson Golf Classic was a day to remember—filled with great competition, strong fellowship, and a shared commitment to changing young lives. From the first tee shot to the final putt, the course was alive with energy as teams came together in support of the mission of Paul Anderson Youth Home.

More than just a tournament, the day reflected the power of community—partners, sponsors, and friends—in making a lasting impact. Because of your support, we continue to provide hope, healing, and a brighter future for the young men we serve.

Thank you to everyone who played, sponsored, and helped make this event such a success!

Click on the graphic to view the video.