The Prowers County Department of Human Services aims to reduce poverty, prevent abuse and neglect, and empower individuals to thrive. One of the ways they accomplish this is through the Promoting Responsible Fatherhood Program (Fatherhood Program), which serves all Prowers County residents in father or mentoring roles with children or youth.
The Fatherhood Program grew out of local child maltreatment prevention efforts, discussions with research agencies and other fatherhood programs, as well as community data. Through collaboration with the Department of Human Services, focus groups, and learning sessions, key community needs for fathers and male caregivers were identified including assistance with employment, parenting time, child engagement, and navigating complex court systems. This work also revealed ongoing gaps in services and opportunities that create more “father-friendly” programs and policies. To address these gaps, the Fatherhood Program, which has served approximately 300 fathers, provides individualized case management. This includes assistance with resume building, employment searches, judicial and child support navigation, and domestic violence assessment and referrals. Classes, support groups, and evidence-based interventions teach the foundations of fatherhood, emphasizing expectations, goal setting, nurturing, self-care, and emotional well-being. These support groups and classes help fathers strengthen their relationships with their children and co-parents while increasing engagement in their children’s education, health care, extracurricular activities, and community life.
In addition to classes and case management services, the Fatherhood Program hosts “Dad’s Night,” offering fathers a meal and a safe environment to discuss and learn about fatherhood issues impacting their lives. Every Tuesday night, fathers come together for mentor-led discussions and topics chosen by dads involved in the group.
The impact of the Fatherhood Program is clear. Statistics show it is important for children to have fathers engaged in their lives, which can boost physical and mental health, confidence, and school outcomes. The program has been in the Prowers County community for 17 years, and has been recognized by federal partners at the National Fatherhood Summit.
The Southeast Regional Council is proud to support an organization that equips fathers with the tools, resources, and support needed to strengthen families and improve outcomes for children. To learn more about Prowers County’s Promoting Responsible Fatherhood Program, click here.
