Georgia Fatherhood Program (DCSS/DHS)

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 Georgia

Georgia superior courts hear divorce and custody in each of its 159 counties. The Division of Child Support Services under DHS handles enforcement. Atlanta anchors the state; Savannah, Augusta, Columbus, and Athens round out major metros. Atlanta Legal Aid and Georgia Legal Services Program are the two primary civil legal aid organizations, with specific fathers' rights and child support help available.

More Fatherhood Programs in Georgia

• All Pro Dad – Atlanta Chapters — School-based fatherhood engagement program with chapters at Atlanta-area elementary schools. Free monthly breakfast meetings bring dads and
• National Fatherhood Initiative — Research-based fatherhood resources, 24/7 Father's Pledge app, and connection to local fatherhood programs across Georgia. The National Fath
• Head Start Father Engagement – Georgia — Georgia Head Start programs engage fathers through family events, home visits, and parenting support activities. Father involvement coordina
• Families First Georgia — Atlanta-based nonprofit providing fatherhood programs, family strengthening services, and parenting education for dads in metro Atlanta. Pro
• Urban League of Greater Atlanta – Fatherhood Services — Fatherhood workshops, career development, and family support services for Black fathers and families in the Atlanta metro area. Programs inc
• City of Refuge Atlanta – Men's Services — Atlanta nonprofit offering transitional housing, job training, and family restoration programs for fathers and men in crisis. City of Refuge

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.