Jaron “Jay” Cook is a devoted father of two daughters and a passionate leader committed to restoring the role of fatherhood within families and communities. As Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Fathers First Inc., Jay leads with vision, lived experience, and a deep understanding of the challenges many fathers face.

Jay’s journey is rooted in transformation, resilience, and purpose. As a single father, he understands the weight and responsibility of raising children while navigating life’s obstacles. His experiences have shaped his mission to create spaces where fathers are supported, equipped, and empowered to lead their families with confidence and consistency.

Through Fathers First Inc., Jay has helped build a movement centered on brotherhood, accountability, and growth. His leadership focuses on developing innovative programming, supportive housing, and community-driven solutions that provide fathers with the tools and structure needed to succeed.

Jay believes that when fathers are given the opportunity, support, and resources to grow, entire generations are impacted. His work is driven by a commitment to breaking cycles, building generational stability, and creating lasting change through the power of fatherhood.

Makeshia Patin is an Organizational Development professional, Certified Executive Coach, and doctoral student in Organizational Development and Change with a passion for building stronger organizations, healthier workplace cultures, and sustainable community partnerships. She serves as the Organizational Development Manager for Fathers First Initiative, where she leads efforts related to organizational growth, strategic partnerships, operational development, community engagement, and program sustainability.

With a professional background spanning child welfare, behavioral health, community mental health, human resources, organizational leadership, and workforce development, Makeshia brings a unique systems-focused perspective to nonprofit and community-based work. Throughout her career, she has worked alongside children, families, justice-involved individuals, and individuals navigating mental health challenges, substance use recovery, housing instability, and other life transitions.

Prior to joining Fathers First Initiative, Makeshia served as a Lead Social Caseworker with El Paso County Department of Human Services, where she specialized in child welfare and family support. Her experience also includes leadership roles in community mental health, human resources, workforce training, and organizational development initiatives focused on employee engagement, retention, culture improvement, and strategic growth.

Makeshia is a graduate of the Women's Community Leadership Initiative (WCLI) and actively engages with community leaders and organizations throughout the Colorado Springs region. Her involvement with leadership development programs, the Colorado Springs Black Chamber of Commerce, and community organizations has strengthened her commitment to collaborative solutions that create lasting impact for individuals, families, and communities.

At Fathers First Initiative, Makeshia is focused on helping build systems, partnerships, and programs that support fathers in achieving stability, recovery, accountability, and long-term success. She believes that meaningful change occurs when organizations invest in both people and processes, creating environments where individuals can thrive with dignity, support, and opportunity.

A proud Texas native, Makeshia is a lifelong Longhorn fan, a lover of all things Creole, and a karaoke queen. When she is not building organizational structure, she is likely building Lego sets or miniature models and enjoying sunsets on the balcony.