Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson & Union

Fatherhood Programs · New Jersey · Free

Mentoring program pairing children with adult volunteer mentors in Essex, Hudson, and Union counties. Offers opportunities for fathers, stepfathers, and male community members to serve as role models and strengthen parenting skills through structured mentoring. Located in Cranford. Call 973-731-6100 Monday through Friday 9am to 5pm. Volunteer training and background checks provided. Fathers can refer their own children or become mentors themselves to support youth in their communities.

Contact & Details

Address: 540 N Union Ave, Cranford, NJ 07016

Phone: 973-731-6100

Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm

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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 Jersey

New Jersey Superior Court Family Part handles family law in each of its 15 vicinages. The Office of Child Support Services operates under DHS. Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, Elizabeth, and Trenton are the largest cities. Legal Services of New Jersey coordinates six regional LSC-funded programs covering all 21 counties.

More Fatherhood Programs in New Jersey

  • The Father Center of New Jersey — Trenton-based nonprofit providing comprehensive fatherhood support including parenting workshops, job readiness training, co-parenting guida
  • National Fatherhood Initiative — Nation's leading provider of fatherhood skill-building curricula including 24/7 Dad, InsideOut Dad for incarcerated fathers, and Boot Camp f
  • All Pro Dad - New Jersey Chapters — School-based fatherhood program where dads and their kids meet monthly before school for breakfast, activities, and guided conversations des
  • Urban League of Essex County — Serves Newark and Essex County with community development programs including employment services, early childhood education, and family enga
  • PMCH FELLAS Fatherhood Program — Partnership for Maternal and Child Health of Northern NJ program engaging Essex County fathers to promote healthy relationships and strength
  • Gateway CAP - Male Initiative Program — Fatherhood program serving Atlantic, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Mercer, Gloucester, and Salem counties with one-on-one coaching, group me

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.