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 South Carolina

6 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 South Carolina

South Carolina family courts handle divorce, custody, and support in each of its 16 judicial circuits. The Child Support Services Division operates under the Department of Social Services. Charleston, Columbia, North Charleston, and Mount Pleasant are the largest cities. South Carolina Legal Services is the primary LSC-funded civil legal aid program statewide.

6 Resources

1. SC Center for Fathers and Families — Free

Statewide fatherhood programs providing parenting education, mentoring, employment support, and peer groups for South Carolina dads. Trained facilitators help fathers rebuild relationships with children and manage child-support obligations. Call the Middleburg Drive office in Columbia or visit online to find a local affiliate. Services are generally free and open to any dad seeking to be more engaged.

803-933-9987 · 2711 Middleburg Dr #103, Columbia, SC 29204 · Mon-Fri 9am-5pm · Visit Website

2. Richland County SHARE – Fatherhood — Free

Father engagement programs including workshops, support groups, and employment assistance for Richland County and Midlands dads. SHARE connects fathers with resources on parenting, co-parenting, and financial stability at the Sunset Boulevard location. Call or walk in during weekday hours to enroll. Services are open to income-eligible fathers, including those with child-support or reentry concerns.

803-929-6000 · 3145 Sunset Blvd, West Columbia, SC 29169 · Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm · Visit Website

3. National Fatherhood Initiative – SC Partners — Free

Evidence-based fatherhood programs implemented by local partner organizations across South Carolina. NFI provides curricula like 24/7 Dad and InsideOut Dad used by community, corrections, and faith-based sites. Call the national office or visit online to locate a participating SC program near you. Most partner programs are free for enrolled dads; ask your referring agency about costs and group schedules.

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

4. Pee Dee Healthy Start – Father Engagement — Free

Father engagement and family support programs serving dads in the Pee Dee region. Programs include parenting classes, mentoring, and referrals for employment, health, and housing support based out of the West Cheves Street office in Florence. Call during weekday hours to enroll. Services target low-income fathers and expectant dads; staff can connect participants with related health and social services.

843-661-4960 · 300 W Cheves St, Florence, SC 29501 · Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm · Visit Website

5. Lowcountry Fatherhood Coalition — Free

Father engagement and family support programs serving Charleston-area Lowcountry dads. The coalition connects fathers with parenting workshops, employment supports, and mentoring partners out of the Bridge View Drive office in North Charleston. Call during weekday hours to learn about upcoming groups or referrals. Services focus on dads seeking to strengthen relationships with their children and co-parents.

843-720-7049 · 4045 Bridge View Dr, North Charleston, SC 29405 · Mon-Fri 9am-5pm · Visit Website

6. Fathers & Families Coalition of America – SC Chapter — Free

National fatherhood organization with South Carolina programming, training, and advocacy for dads and family-serving practitioners. The coalition offers credentialing, conferences, and program models used by SC-based fatherhood providers. Call the national office or visit online to find SC-based partner programs. Services are generally free or low-cost; ask your referring partner about specific enrollment options.

800-790-3227 · Mon-Fri 9am-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.