NH Fatherhood Initiative – DHHS

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 New Hampshire

New Hampshire's Circuit Court Family Division handles all family matters statewide. The Division of Child Support Services operates under DHHS. Manchester, Nashua, Concord, and Dover are the largest cities. 603 Legal Aid is the statewide LSC-funded civil legal aid program, with a strong self-help website for pro se fathers.

More Fatherhood Programs in New Hampshire

• National Fatherhood Initiative – NH Partners — The National Fatherhood Initiative partners with New Hampshire community organizations to deliver evidence-based fatherhood curricula includ
• NH Children's Trust – Fatherhood — NH Children's Trust runs statewide programs to prevent child abuse and strengthen father-child bonds through parenting education, home visit
• Boys & Girls Club of Manchester – Dads — The Boys & Girls Club of Manchester hosts youth programs and father-engagement events throughout the school year, encouraging dads to volunt
• YMCA of Greater Nashua – Father Programs — The Nashua YMCA offers father-child classes, adventure programs, swim lessons, and family events at its Stadium Drive facility. Fathers can
• YMCA of Greater Manchester – Dad Programs — The Granite YMCA in Manchester offers father-child fitness classes, swim lessons, and bonding activities aimed at building stronger dad-kid
• Boys & Girls Club of Nashua – Father Events — The Boys & Girls Club of Nashua hosts father-engagement activities and family nights throughout the year at its Grand Avenue location, along

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.