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 Montana

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 Montana

Montana district courts handle family matters in each of its 56 counties across 22 judicial districts. The Child Support Services Division operates under DPHHS. Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, and Bozeman are the largest cities. Montana Legal Services Association is the statewide LSC-funded civil legal aid program, with extensive online self-help for pro se litigants.

7 Resources

1. National Fatherhood Initiative – MT Partners — Free

Evidence-based fatherhood curriculum and resources distributed through local Montana partners such as schools, community agencies, and tribal programs. Fathers can find workbooks, a free Dad 2.0 email series, and program locator tools online. The national office can help Montana dads identify the closest 24/7 Dad or InsideOut Dad class, whether they are first-time fathers, re-entering, or incarcerated.

301-948-0599 · Mon-Fri 9am-5pm · Visit Website

2. YMCA of Billings – Father Programs — Free

Father-child activities, family swim times, youth sports leagues, and workshops at the Billings YMCA supporting dad involvement in kids' lives. Financial assistance is available for families who qualify, making memberships and programs accessible to lower-income fathers. Drop by the welcome desk to tour, fill out a membership application, or sign up a child for a class, camp, or after-school program.

406-294-1630 · 402 N 32nd St, Billings, MT 59101 · Mon-Fri 5:30am-9pm

3. Boys & Girls Clubs of Montana – Dads — Free

Boys & Girls Clubs in Great Falls and other Montana cities offer after-school and summer programs promoting father involvement through family events, mentoring, and male-volunteer opportunities. Dads can enroll kids in low-cost programs, volunteer at the Club, or participate in dad-child activity nights. Membership is inexpensive; financial assistance and free snacks/meals are available for families who qualify.

406-454-1717 · Great Falls, MT 59401 · Mon-Fri after school · Visit Website

4. Human Resource Development Council – Fatherhood — Free

HRDC in Bozeman supports Gallatin-area fathers through family support programs, housing help, food assistance, Head Start, and parenting resources. Dads facing financial stress or custody changes can meet with a family advocate to line up services under one case plan. Walk in during business hours or call to schedule an intake; bring ID, income documents, and information on children for enrollment.

406-587-4486 · 32 S Tracy Ave, Bozeman, MT 59715 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

5. MSU Extension – Father Engagement — Free

Montana State University Extension delivers research-based family and father-engagement education through county offices across the state. Fathers can access free parenting articles, webinars, co-parenting tips, and in-person workshops through the local Extension agent. Topics include child development by age, managing conflict, reading with kids, and supporting teens, adapted for Montana families.

406-994-1750 · Bozeman, MT 59717 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

6. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Montana — Free

Nonprofit mentoring organization matching Montana children — especially those being raised by a single parent — with carefully screened adult volunteers for long-term friendships. Dads can enroll a child as a Little or sign up to be a Big Brother mentor to another child. Matches meet several times a month, and staff coach both families through the relationship. All matches are free to participating families.

406-727-2789 · Great Falls, MT 59401 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

7. Blackfeet Nation – Fatherhood Initiative — Free

Culturally based fatherhood program for Blackfeet tribal members in Browning and the surrounding Blackfeet Reservation, blending parenting education with Blackfoot language, ceremony, and cultural teachings. Dads can join cohort classes, participate in father-child events, and get connected to tribal social services. Call the Nation's offices in Browning to confirm current cohort schedules and enrollment.

406-338-7521 · Browning, MT 59417 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

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.