Osborne Association — FamilyWorks (NYC)

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 York

New York has separate Family Court (for custody, support, paternity, DV) and Supreme Court (for divorce) systems. NYC's Family Court operates in all five boroughs. The Office of Child Support Services runs enforcement. NYC, Buffalo, Rochester, Yonkers, and Syracuse are the major metros. Legal Aid Society of NYC, New York Legal Assistance Group, and Legal Services NYC provide substantial family law aid.

More Fatherhood Programs in New York

• NYC DYCD — Fatherhood Initiative — NYC Department of Youth and Community Development fatherhood program. Helps fathers 18+ reconnect with children, develop parenting skills, a
• NYC Children's Cabinet — Fatherhood Initiative — NYC interagency initiative promoting father engagement across city agencies and community organizations. Connects fathers with services for
• Good+ Foundation — NYC Fatherhood Program — NYC-based nonprofit donating essential baby and child items including cribs, diapers, strollers, and clothing to fathers enrolled in partner
• SCO Family of Services — Fathers' Program (Brooklyn) — Award-winning Brooklyn fatherhood program serving Brownsville, Bed-Stuy, and East New York. Free parenting classes, counseling, case managem
• NY State OCFS — Fatherhood Engagement Program — New York State Office of Children and Family Services fatherhood initiative promoting responsible fatherhood and father engagement across al
• ACS Fatherhood Resource Guide — NYC (2025) — NYC Administration for Children's Services comprehensive guide to fatherhood resources across all five boroughs, covering legal assistance,

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.