9 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.
9 Resources
1. Arkansas Fatherhood Initiative – DHS — Free
State Department of Human Services programs supporting responsible fatherhood through parenting classes, employment help, child support navigation, and peer groups. Fathers across Arkansas can call the Little Rock office for referrals to funded partners in their county. Intake typically asks for photo ID, Social Security number, income information, and basic details about your children and any existing court orders.
501-682-8375 · 700 Main St, Little Rock, AR 72201 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website
2. National Fatherhood Initiative – AR Partners — Free
National nonprofit supporting evidence-based fatherhood curricula used by Arkansas community programs, churches, and reentry groups. Fathers can use the online directory to find 24/7 and program partners offering classes like 24/7 Dad and InsideOut Dad. Arkansas sites often run free groups, so contact them for current schedules, registration, and any materials to bring to the first session.
301-948-0599 · Mon-Fri 9am-5pm · Visit Website
3. Community Action Agencies – Father Programs — Free
Network of Arkansas Community Action Agencies offering fatherhood services such as parenting workshops, employment coaching, emergency assistance, and peer support groups. Fathers can call the Little Rock office to find the agency serving their county. Intake usually requires photo ID, proof of income and household, Social Security numbers for household members, and basic information about children and custody.
501-372-1136 · Little Rock, AR 72201 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
4. YMCA of the Ozarks – Father Programs — Free
Springdale-area YMCA running father-child activities, parenting workshops, and youth enrichment programs that encourage engaged fatherhood across northwest Arkansas. Fathers can visit the Old Missouri Road branch for current schedules, financial assistance applications, and family membership options. Bring photo ID and proof of income if applying for reduced-rate membership, plus your children's basic info.
479-927-9622 · 1901 S Old Missouri Rd, Springdale, AR 72764 · Mon-Fri 5:30am-9pm
5. Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arkansas – Dads — Free
Central Arkansas chapter hosting youth programming and family events that welcome and promote father involvement, including academic support, sports, and character-building activities. Fathers can visit the South University Avenue clubhouse after school hours to learn about enrollment, volunteer opportunities, and upcoming dad-focused events. Bring photo ID and the child's basic info to register.
501-753-5222 · 6000 S University Ave, Little Rock, AR 72209 · Mon-Fri after school
6. Arkansas Children's Trust – Fatherhood — Free
State trust fund supporting programs that strengthen father-child bonds, improve parenting skills, and reduce child maltreatment by engaging dads in their children's lives. Fathers can contact the Little Rock office for referrals to funded fatherhood groups and classes in their county. Most partner programs are free, and some help with parenting plans, child support, and reentry challenges.
501-296-9000 · 101 E Capitol Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
7. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arkansas — Free
Little Rock mentoring agency pairing adult male volunteers with youth who benefit from additional guidance, especially children in single-parent households. Fathers can enroll their child as a 'Little' or volunteer as a 'Big' by calling the office. Enrollment requires photo ID, background paperwork for volunteers, and information about the child's interests, school, and any special needs.
501-374-6661 · 220 W 2nd St, Little Rock, AR 72201 · Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm
8. YMCA of Greater Little Rock – Dad Programs — Free
Central Arkansas YMCA offering father-child activities, fitness programs, and family events that support engaged dads in Pulaski County. Fathers can visit the Ranch Drive branch for current class schedules, youth sports sign-ups, and financial assistance options. Bring photo ID and proof of income if applying for reduced-rate membership, plus your children's names and birth dates for registration.
501-758-9622 · 5515 Ranch Dr, Little Rock, AR 72223 · Mon-Fri 5am-9pm
9. Fort Smith Boys & Girls Club – Father Events — Free
Fort Smith chapter offering youth programming and family events that promote father involvement, including tutoring, sports, and community dinners. Fathers in Sebastian County can visit the Wheeler Avenue clubhouse after school hours to enroll a child, volunteer, or learn about upcoming dad-focused events. Bring photo ID and the child's basic information to complete registration paperwork.
479-782-3517 · 3702 Wheeler Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72901 · Mon-Fri after school