What do fatherhood programs actually do?

Most combine peer support groups, parenting skill workshops, help navigating child support and custody, job training or placement, and — for fathers involved in the justice system — reentry services. Programs run 6–16 weeks typically, and most are free.

Who can join? Do I need custody?

Most fatherhood programs serve any dad regardless of custody status, marital status, or whether children live with them. Many specifically serve non-custodial fathers and fathers coming out of incarceration. A small number focus on specific populations (teen dads, reentry, veterans).

Are there programs for fathers who lost custody?

Yes. Programs like National Fatherhood Initiative's InsideOut Dad, Father Friendly Check-up-affiliated organizations, and many faith-based programs specifically support dads rebuilding relationships with kids after separation or incarceration.

How do fatherhood programs help with child support?

Many run 'Fatherhood Fridays' or similar collaborations with child support agencies that provide modifications for reduced income, arrears reduction for program completion, or bridge-the-gap job placements to help dads get current on orders.

Fatherhood Programs in Alaska

7 verified resources.

About Fatherhood Programs for Fathers

Fatherhood programs in the US are funded through the federal Office of Family Assistance (OFA) under the Responsible Fatherhood grant program and through state and local initiatives. Programs typically focus on three areas: healthy marriage and relationship skills, responsible parenting, and economic stability (employment and financial literacy). Services often include peer support groups, one-on-one mentoring, job training, help navigating child support, and reentry support for formerly incarcerated fathers. Organizations like the National Fatherhood Initiative (NFI) and Fathers' Rights Movement operate nationally; most states also have dedicated fatherhood coalitions and faith-based organizations running local programs. This directory includes federally-funded Healthy Marriage and Responsible Fatherhood (HMRF) grantees, state fatherhood coalitions, and community-based mentorship programs — all open to dads regardless of custody status.

Fatherhood Programs in Alaska

Alaska family cases are heard in the Alaska Superior Court, one of the few states with a unified trial court structure. The Child Support Services Division within the Department of Revenue handles enforcement. Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau host the largest court locations; rural Alaska relies heavily on magistrates and remote hearings. Alaska Legal Services Corporation provides statewide civil legal aid.

7 Resources

1. National Fatherhood Initiative — Alaska — Free

National nonprofit offering curricula, workbooks, and resources that Alaska community-based organizations use to support father engagement, responsible fatherhood, and healthy relationships. Fathers can download free guides or contact staff weekdays to find local programs using NFI materials. Have your ZIP code, children's ages, and the type of support you want (parenting, reentry, coaching) ready when calling.

(301) 948-0599 · National resource · Mon-Fri 9am-5pm · Visit Website

2. YMCA of Anchorage — Father Programs — Paid

Family-focused recreation, youth sports, swim lessons, and parent-child activities at the Anchorage YMCA supporting father involvement. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families. Fathers can walk in during open hours or call to tour the facility; bring a photo ID, proof of address, and pay stubs or benefits letters if requesting reduced rates on memberships, programs, or childcare enrollment.

(907) 563-3211 · 5353 Lake Otis Pkwy, Anchorage, AK 99507 · Mon-Fri 5am-10pm

3. Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium — Family Programs — Free

Health-focused family and fatherhood programs for Alaska Native and American Indian communities statewide, including wellness, parenting, and early childhood services. Programs blend clinical care with cultural practices. Fathers can call the Anchorage office weekdays to find local offerings; bring a photo ID, tribal enrollment information, and children's medical or birth records to the intake when enrolling.

(907) 729-1900 · 4000 Ambassador Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

4. Tanana Chiefs Conference — Family Programs — Free

Fatherhood and family strengthening services for Interior Alaska tribal communities, including parenting education, cultural activities, and wellness programs coordinated from Fairbanks. Services support enrolled tribal members and their families. Fathers can call weekdays to enroll; bring a photo ID, tribal enrollment information, and children's birth certificates so staff can connect your family with the right program.

(907) 452-8251 · 122 1st Ave Suite 600, Fairbanks, AK 99701 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

5. Kawerak — Family & Youth Programs — Free

Fatherhood and family wellness programs for Bering Strait region communities, coordinated from Nome. Staff offer parenting education, youth services, and culturally grounded family support for tribal families across the region. Fathers can call weekdays to enroll; bring a photo ID, tribal enrollment information, and children's birth certificates so staff can connect the family with the right program.

(907) 443-5231 · PO Box 948, Nome, AK 99762 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

6. Alaska Children's Trust — Dad's Connection — Free

Statewide father engagement programming and grants supporting dads across Alaska through community partnerships, training, and events. Staff fund and promote programs that strengthen father-child relationships in urban and rural areas. Fathers can call the Anchorage office weekdays to find partner programs or request resources; have your ZIP code and children's ages handy for accurate local referrals.

(907) 248-7676 · 3745 Community Park Loop Suite 200, Anchorage, AK 99508 · Mon-Fri 9am-5pm · Visit Website

7. Kenai Peninsula Fatherhood Coalition — Free

Community partnership promoting active father involvement on the Kenai Peninsula through education, support groups, and family-friendly events. The coalition works with Soldotna- and Kenai-based agencies to connect dads with parenting resources. Fathers can call weekdays; have your ZIP code, children's ages, and the type of support you want available so staff can point you to the right local partner program.

(907) 283-9424 · 47 Birch St, Soldotna, AK 99669 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

Fatherhood Programs — Common Questions

What do fatherhood programs actually do?: Most combine peer support groups, parenting skill workshops, help navigating child support and custody, job training or placement, and — for fathers involved in the justice system — reentry services. Programs run 6–16 weeks typically, and most are free.
Who can join? Do I need custody?: Most fatherhood programs serve any dad regardless of custody status, marital status, or whether children live with them. Many specifically serve non-custodial fathers and fathers coming out of incarceration. A small number focus on specific populations (teen dads, reentry, veterans).
Are there programs for fathers who lost custody?: Yes. Programs like National Fatherhood Initiative's InsideOut Dad, Father Friendly Check-up-affiliated organizations, and many faith-based programs specifically support dads rebuilding relationships with kids after separation or incarceration.
How do fatherhood programs help with child support?: Many run 'Fatherhood Fridays' or similar collaborations with child support agencies that provide modifications for reduced income, arrears reduction for program completion, or bridge-the-gap job placements to help dads get current on orders.