With a population of just over 9,000, Chillicothe, Missouri, offers the warmth of small-town living combined with a forward-thinking approach to community development. Its rich history, strong family values, and active community spirit make it an ideal location for Good Dads Chillicothe—a chapter committed to supporting and empowering fathers in their roles at home and in the broader community.
However, like many rural towns, Chillicothe faces significant challenges. Over 16% of the population lives below the poverty line, with single-parent households experiencing poverty rates as high as 22.6%. In the local school district, 34.1% of students are classified as economically disadvantaged, and 12.3% of children in the city live in poverty. These figures reflect a broader need for community-based interventions that strengthen family structures and promote child well-being.
In addition, recent incidents, such as multiple arrests in connection with child abuse investigations, highlight ongoing concerns about child welfare and underscore the urgent need for support systems that address both physical and emotional needs within families.
In this context, Good Dads Chillicothe stands as a vital resource. By providing mentorship, education and community-building opportunities for fathers, the chapter helps reduce risk factors associated with poverty and family instability. Through intentional outreach and support, it plays a crucial role in building stronger, more resilient families—offering hope and direction to those who need it most.

Working alongside J.B. is his good friend Cameron Schmitz (right), whose passion for service spans many roles. Cameron has been active in Christian radio and currently teaches pre-K at Green Hills Head Start. Together with his wife, he is raising a recently adopted 3-year-old and a newborn daughter. His life mission is to walk alongside families of all kinds, offering support for both their physical and spiritual needs.
Together, J.B. and Cameron are helping build a stronger community by creating spaces where dads can find support, encouragement, and hope—for themselves, their families, and their future.