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 Dakota

10 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 Dakota

South Dakota circuit courts hear family matters in each of its seven judicial circuits. The Division of Child Support operates under DSS. Sioux Falls and Rapid City are the largest cities. Dakota Plains Legal Services and East River Legal Services provide civil legal aid statewide (with special mandates serving tribal communities).

10 Resources

1. South Dakota Fatherhood Initiative — Free

State-funded program promoting responsible fatherhood in South Dakota through mentoring, parenting education, and employment support. Activities are coordinated through the Department of Social Services in Pierre and partner agencies. Fathers can call the state office to find the nearest participating program, group, or class. Services often include peer groups, curriculum-based classes, and referrals to job training or legal aid.

(605) 773-3227 · 700 Governors Dr, Pierre, SD 57501 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

2. National Fatherhood Initiative — SD — Free

National curricula and resources supporting father engagement programs in South Dakota, including 24/7 Dad, InsideOut Dad, and Understanding Dad. The organization trains local facilitators and provides downloadable tools for fathers. Dads can visit the site to find articles, tip sheets, and program locators. Agencies interested in starting a group can order materials and request technical assistance during weekday business hours.

(301) 948-0599 · National resource · Mon-Fri 9am-5pm · Visit Website

3. Oglala Lakota Fatherhood Program — Free

Culturally responsive fatherhood initiative serving Native American fathers on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. Programming blends parenting education with Lakota traditions, peer mentoring, and family wellness activities. Fathers can call the local office to learn about upcoming cohorts, support groups, and family events. Services are offered free to enrolled tribal members and their families during weekday office hours.

(605) 867-5861 · Pine Ridge, SD 57770 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

4. YMCA of Greater Sioux Falls — Father Programs — Paid

Family-focused programs and activities encouraging father involvement through the YMCA of Greater Sioux Falls. Dads can join parent-child swim lessons, youth sports, mentoring events, and family nights at the downtown facility. Financial assistance is available for families who qualify. Bring photo ID and proof of address or income to apply for reduced fees. Full weekday and weekend access for active members.

(605) 336-3190 · 230 S Minnesota Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 · Mon-Fri 5am-10pm · Visit Website

5. Cheyenne River Sioux Fatherhood Program — Free

Culturally grounded fatherhood program for Native American dads on the Cheyenne River Reservation, based in Eagle Butte. Services include parenting classes, peer support groups, and family engagement activities rooted in Lakota values and traditions. Fathers can call the program office to learn about upcoming cohorts, eligibility, and family events. Participation is free for enrolled tribal members and their families during weekdays.

(605) 964-4155 · Eagle Butte, SD 57625 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

6. Standing Rock Sioux Fatherhood Initiative — Free

Father engagement and parenting support for Native American dads on the Standing Rock Reservation, which spans the South Dakota–North Dakota border. Programming blends parenting curricula with cultural practices, peer mentoring, and family events based in Fort Yates. Tribal members can call the main office to learn about classes, support groups, and enrollment. Services are offered free to participating families during weekdays.

(701) 854-7201 · Fort Yates, ND/SD 58538 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

7. Aberdeen YMCA — Father & Child Programs — Paid

Father-child activities and engagement events for families in Aberdeen and northeast South Dakota through the local YMCA. Programs include parent-child swim, youth sports, family gym nights, and seasonal events. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families. Bring photo ID and proof of income when applying for reduced fees. The Roosevelt Street facility is open early mornings through evenings most days.

(605) 225-9622 · 415 S Roosevelt St, Aberdeen, SD 57401 · Mon-Fri 5:30am-9pm · Visit Website

8. SD Child Welfare — Father Engagement Initiative — Free

State child welfare programs promoting father involvement in child protection cases administered by the Department of Social Services in Pierre. The initiative encourages locating nonresident fathers early, offering parent support, and involving dads in case planning. Fathers with an open case should ask their caseworker how to participate and bring photo ID and any custody paperwork to meetings for identification and records.

(605) 773-3227 · 700 Governors Dr, Pierre, SD 57501 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

9. Rosebud Sioux Tribe — Family Services — Free

Family support and fatherhood resources for Native American families on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota. Tribal programs offer parenting classes, case management, and cultural activities that strengthen father involvement. Fathers who are enrolled members can contact the tribal office to learn about services and family events. Bring tribal enrollment documentation and any existing case paperwork to intake appointments.

(605) 747-2381 · Rosebud, SD 57570 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

10. City of Rapid City — Parks & Rec Dad Programs — Paid

Father-focused recreation programs and family events through the Rapid City Parks and Recreation Department, including parent-child sports, outdoor activities, and seasonal festivals. Dads can register online or in person at the city office. Fees vary by program and some scholarships are available. Have photo ID, proof of residency, and child information ready when registering. Schedules change seasonally.

(605) 394-4163 · 444 Mount Rushmore Rd N, Rapid City, SD 57701 · Varies by program · 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.