Child & Family Service – Father Engagement

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 Hawaii

Hawaii's Family Court is a division of the Circuit Court and operates in each of its four judicial circuits (Oahu, Maui, Hawaii Island, Kauai). The Child Support Enforcement Agency operates under the Attorney General. Honolulu is by far the largest population center. Legal Aid Society of Hawaii is the primary civil legal aid provider, with Volunteer Legal Services Hawaii offering supplemental pro bono support.

More Fatherhood Programs in Hawaii

• Hawaii Fatherhood Initiative – DHS — State fatherhood programs through the Department of Human Services supporting responsible fatherhood, paternity establishment, and father-ch
• National Fatherhood Initiative – HI Partners — Evidence-based fatherhood programs available in Hawaii through local partner agencies using curricula such as 24/7 Dad. Call the national of
• Maui Family Support Services – Fatherhood — Father engagement programs on Maui offered through the Wili Pa Loop office in Wailuku, with classes, case management, and peer support for d
• Alu Like Inc. – Native Hawaiian Fathers — Culturally specific programs for Native Hawaiian fathers, weaving ohana values, language, and traditional practices into parenting and respo
• Hawaii Community Foundation – Family — Family strengthening grants and programs statewide through a philanthropic foundation that funds local nonprofits working on father engageme
• Kamehameha Schools – Parent Programs — Family education programs for Native Hawaiian families including parenting classes, early childhood supports, and cultural learning opportun

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.