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 Washington

12 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 Washington

Washington superior courts handle family matters in each of its 39 counties. The Division of Child Support operates under DSHS. Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, and Bellevue are the major metros. Northwest Justice Project is the statewide LSC-funded program, with Snohomish County Legal Services, Tacoma-Pierce County Bar Volunteer Legal Services, and King County Bar providing local support.

12 Resources

1. Washington State Fathers Network — Free

Statewide program supporting fathers of children with special needs through peer support, regional group meetings, conferences, newsletters, and educational resources since 1985. Based in Bellevue and operating chapters across Washington where dads connect, share experiences, and build practical skills for parenting kids with disabilities or chronic health conditions. No income requirements; register online or by phone. Bring an open mind and willingness to connect with other dads at the local chapter.

425-747-4004 · 16120 NE 8th St, Bellevue, WA 98008 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

2. National Fatherhood Initiative — Free

Leading national nonprofit providing fatherhood skill-building programs like 24/7 Dad and InsideOut Dad, active in Washington community organizations, prisons, and community-based fatherhood programs. Curriculum includes parenting skills, co-parenting, relationships, and self-awareness. Washington partner sites deliver the programs at no cost to participants. No income documents or ID typically required beyond program enrollment; contact a local partner listed on the website to register.

301-948-0599 · National (programs delivered at WA partner sites) · Mon-Fri 9am-5pm · Visit Website

3. All Pro Dad - Washington Chapters — Free

School-based fatherhood program with chapters across Washington where dads and kids meet monthly for breakfast, activities, and relationship-building conversations grounded in character and family values. Serves all dads, stepdads, and father figures with children in participating schools. Use the website ZIP locator to find a local chapter. No registration fee or income documents; show up with your child at the scheduled monthly meeting and introduce yourself to the chapter leader.

Multiple WA school locations (search by ZIP) · Monthly meetings — check local chapter · Visit Website

4. Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle - Fatherhood — Free

Community-based program helping fathers in the Seattle area build parenting skills, find employment, reconnect with children after incarceration, and strengthen family bonds. Serves King County dads with parenting classes, case management, employment support, and peer groups. Intake requires photo ID and basic contact information; some programs ask for proof of income, household size, and children's birth certificates depending on funding source. Call to schedule intake.

206-461-3792 · 105 14th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122 · Mon-Fri 9am-5pm · Visit Website

5. Tacoma Urban League - Father Engagement — Free

Provides mentoring, parenting classes, job training, and family strengthening support to fathers in the Tacoma-Pierce County area to promote family stability and economic mobility. Serves Pierce County dads of all backgrounds. Intake requires photo ID, proof of income (pay stubs or benefits letter), household size, and children's birth certificates for programs tied to specific grants. Call to schedule intake or ask about upcoming parenting class cohorts.

253-383-2007 · 2550 S Yakima Ave, Tacoma, WA 98405 · Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm

6. Catholic Community Services - Family Strengthening — Free

Offers fatherhood engagement, family reunification, and family preservation services across Western Washington, including parenting classes, case management, and visitation support for dads in the child welfare system. Serves parents in King, Pierce, Snohomish, and other Western WA counties. Intake requires photo ID, court or DCYF referral if child-welfare-involved, proof of income, and children's birth certificates. Call to schedule intake.

206-328-5696 · 100 23rd Ave S, Seattle, WA 98144 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

7. YWCA of Seattle - Father Engagement Program — Free

Program supporting fathers in building healthy relationships with their children through parenting workshops, support groups, and family activities across King and Snohomish counties. Serves diverse dads including formerly incarcerated and immigrant fathers. Intake requires photo ID and basic contact information; programs tied to specific grants may ask for proof of income, household size, and children's birth certificates. Call to schedule an intake appointment.

206-461-4882 · 1118 5th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101 · Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm · Visit Website

8. Boys & Girls Clubs of King County - Father Programs — Free

Youth development organization with father engagement programs encouraging dads to participate in their children's education, after-school activities, and family events. Clubhouses across King County welcome dads to volunteer, attend family nights, and support their kids' programming. No income requirements for father engagement events. Children must be enrolled at a clubhouse; registration requires photo ID for the parent, child's birth certificate, and emergency contact info.

206-436-1890 · 1225 S Weller St, Suite 300, Seattle, WA 98144 · Mon-Fri after school hours · Visit Website

9. Washington State Fathers' Rights Foundation — Free

Nonprofit advocacy organization supporting fathers' rights in Washington custody proceedings through education, resources, and legal information for self-represented dads. Offers online guides, peer connections, and advocacy on family court reform issues. Serves all Washington fathers statewide. No intake documents required to browse resources; use the website to find articles, links to legal aid partners, and information on parenting plans, support modification, and court procedure.

Statewide online resource · Online 24/7

10. Dads' Adventure Days - Washington — Free

Community-organized father-child outdoor adventure events held at Washington state parks designed to strengthen father-child relationships through hiking, camping, fishing, and nature programs. Serves dads, stepdads, and father figures with children of various ages. Check individual parks or community event calendars for dates. A Discover Pass may be required for park entry; bring weather-appropriate gear, water, and any photo ID needed for specific park programs.

Various WA state parks · Seasonal weekend events · Visit Website

11. Children's Home Society of Washington - Father Support — Free

Statewide child welfare organization offering parenting classes, home visiting, early learning, and family support services with dedicated father engagement programming in many counties. Serves expectant dads and fathers of young children. Home visiting programs typically have income eligibility for families receiving Apple Health or at or below state median income. Intake requires photo ID, proof of income, and child's birth certificate or due date. Call to enroll.

206-695-3200 · 3300 NE 65th St, Seattle, WA 98115 · Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm · Visit Website

12. Tacoma Community House - Fatherhood Services — Free

Community center in Tacoma offering fatherhood engagement classes, ESL, job training, citizenship classes, and family support to diverse Tacoma fathers including immigrants and refugees. Serves Pierce County dads. Intake requires photo ID (or passport/immigration documents for ESL/citizenship students), proof of income for sliding-fee programs, household size, and children's birth certificates for family programs. Call to schedule an intake appointment or enroll.

253-383-3951 · 1314 S L St, Tacoma, WA 98405 · 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.