After attending an All Pro Dad event this summer with his son Cade, Matt Nelis, 37, Noblesville, decided to look into starting a local chapter at his son's school. This Thursday, Noble Crossing Elementary will have its inaugural All Pro Dad's Breakfast.

Question: Could you briefly describe what an All Pro Dad group is?

Answer: All Pro Dad is a national charity that was created by Tony Dungy while (he was) the coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The simple mission is to provide a forum to speak out on the importance of fatherhood.

Q: Why did you decide to start a chapter at Noble Crossing Elementary?

A: My son, Cade, and I attended an All Pro Dad event over Father's Day weekend this year at the Pro Football Hall of Fame. We had an amazing time together. I had always thought I was a pretty good dad, but after going to this event, I realized there was more I could be doing to help grow the relationship that I have with both of my children. And my personality does not let me sit on the sidelines -- I have to be involved. With that being said, I thought Cade's school would be the perfect place, and with my involvement he will learn first-hand that if we are passionate about something, we should get involved. However, without the leadership of (Principal) McDaniel . . . and the PTA, we would not have been able to get rolling.

Q: What other parenting organizations had you been involved with prior to starting the All Pro Dad chapter?

A: Previously I was a sports director for a local YMCA, a great family focused organization, with tremendous parent involvement. I have also coached youth sports for the past 10 years, even before we had children. The All Pro Dad chapter is really the first father-child focused group I have been involved with.

Q: What are some of the benefits of participating in the group?

A: The dads (or moms) will get to learn about becoming better and more in-touch parents (and husbands) in a relaxed, fun atmosphere surrounded by their peers. The kids will get the opportunity to be involved in some fun activities with their parents while learning about the importance of faith, love and communication.