The DYCD Fatherhood Initiative helps fathers reconnect with their children and develop essential parenting skills. DYCD offers fatherhood programming in three distinct categories: Young Fathers (16-24 years-old), Older Fathers (over the age of 24), and Ex-offenders. The Fatherhood Initiative is designed to help each father increase engagement and responsibility in his relationship with his child/children; and provide material and financial support to his child/children.

Since 2002, DYCD has been committed to enhancing children’s development through programs that encourage fathers to become personally involved with their children emotionally and financially, and help fathers relate to their co-parents. DYCD services include individual and family counseling; mediation & conflict resolution training; parenting skill classes; assistance with issues of child support and arranging child visitation; peer counseling and father-to-father mentoring; GED and/or ESOL classes or referrals; employment counseling and referrals; College preparation.

Since the announcement of the Mayor’s Fatherhood Initiative, DYCD has been a vital partner to other city agencies, such as the Department of Health and the Housing Authority, in providing these and other services to dads.

For more information about DYCD and its fatherhood programs click here.