Fatherhood Initiative Off...

Fatherhood Initiative Offers Mentorship & More to DCHA Dads

The DC Housing Authority's Fatherhood Initiative is creating a safe space for dads to connect and engage with mentors and empower themselves through the development of critical life skills.

When fathers are positively involved in their children's lives, the whole family benefits. Children are more likely to do well in school, have fewer behavioral problems and more positive relationships with their peers. Parents often see improvement in their own mental health and report stronger relationships with their kids and their children's mothers.

Launched in 2024, the Fatherhood Initiative involves monthly gatherings of DCHA fathers, or those who are public housing residents or a voucher household member, on five key areas:

• Health & Wellness
• Education & Employment
• Life Skills & Leadership
• Financial Literacy
• Mentorship

The monthly engagements vary from education-focused meetings, covering topics such as men's health; family-friendly activities, like DCHA's Halloween festivities; cultural programming; and other relationship-building events. Fatherhood Initiative participants also have opportunities to take part in special offerings, like attending a Washington Nationals game.

To join the DCHA Fatherhood Initiative, contact Joseph Nelson, of the Office of Resident Services, by emailing [email protected].