Joseph Baraket has been working in the social services field for 15 years and now works for the Guardian ad Litem program in Pasco County. It’s definitely an emotionally taxing job, but he says it’s rewarding to make a difference in children’s lives. At the same time, the job has helped him be an effective parent to Joshua, 6, and Aiden, 3. “At the end of the day I am happy I have them and happy they have me.” Baraket, his wife Jessica and their two boys have lived in the Tampa Bay area for two years and love it.
What’s the most rewarding part of being a dad?
Watching them grow and become interested in things that I enjoyed as a child. I would also like to add that at the end of a hard day a simple, “I love you, daddy,” makes everything I do worthwhile.
What is your favorite thing to do with your kids?
Family vacations are the best. We love to travel and visit the many places Florida has to offer. Most of all we love the beaches.
What is the most challenging part of fatherhood?
Every day is a new challenge. Children don’t always believe that parents only want what is best for them. Trying to get kids to understand that is a challenge.
What role model in your life influenced the kind of father you are?
My parents and grandparents taught me the value of family and how important it is to respect and take care of one another. I could only hope to pass these same values on to my children.
As a father, how do you view your responsibilities?
Responsibilities as a parent are never-ending if you want your children to grow and succeed in life.
What advice would you give other fathers?
Don’t try to mold your children. Let them grow and evolve and become their own person. Simply be there to guide and love them.
It is often difficult to balance a career with spending time with your family. How do you deal with this and make time for them?
Time management and communication. I try very hard to manage my time at work so that I can be home for my kids in the evening and devote all of my attention to them. At times, my job requires me to work evenings and weekends. When that happens, I always communicate with tell them why it is important for me to be there. My kids always know they are my priority, and I make sure they can trust that when I say I will be there I am.
What is something people don’t know about you?
I am sentimental. I come across as a tough guy but I am actually a big softy.
What makes you happy?
Seeing how proud my boys are when they tell me about something they did. They work so hard at everything to make their dad proud and I am.
Where is your favorite place to go in Tampa?
The Tampa Bay area has so many great family-oriented places. We love the sports complexes in the area. We have spent many weekends at sporting and entertainment events at the Forum, Raymond James Stadium and Steinbrenner Field. Our other favorite is the beaches.
