Arizona Department of Economic Security - Fatherhood Programs

Fatherhood Programs · Arizona · Free

State agency coordinating Arizona's responsible fatherhood initiatives, connecting fathers statewide with parenting classes, employment and workforce support, child support navigation, and co-parenting resources through community partner organizations. Open to custodial and noncustodial fathers regardless of income. Services are generally free. Call or visit a local DES office to be routed to a fatherhood program partner in your county.

Contact & Details

Address: 1789 W Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85007

Phone: 602-542-4791

Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

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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 Arizona

Arizona handles custody (called 'legal decision-making' and 'parenting time') in superior courts in all 15 counties. The Division of Child Support Services operates under DES. Maricopa County (Phoenix) runs the nation's busiest family court. Major metros include Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, and Chandler. Community Legal Services and Southern Arizona Legal Aid cover most of the state.

More Fatherhood Programs in Arizona

  • National Fatherhood Initiative — Leading national nonprofit providing evidence-based fatherhood skill-building curricula, including 24/7 Dad, InsideOut Dad (for incarcerated
  • All Pro Dad - Arizona Chapters — School-based fatherhood engagement program of Family First with chapters at elementary and middle schools across Arizona. Fathers, father fi
  • Chicanos Por La Causa - Fatherhood Program — Phoenix-based statewide community development organization providing fatherhood engagement workshops, parenting education, workforce develop
  • Fathers Matter (Phoenix) — Phoenix-based fatherhood organization providing parenting workshops, peer support groups, one-on-one mentoring, and resources designed speci
  • Tucson Urban League — Longstanding Tucson-based nonprofit affiliated with the National Urban League providing family strengthening and fatherhood engagement progr
  • Healthy Families Arizona — Statewide home visiting program administered through DES connecting new fathers and mothers with trained family support specialists who prov

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.