Being a father can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. However, there are often personal and societal barriers that prevent fathers from reaching their full potential in this role. The Zepf Center Fatherhood Connection (ZCFC) program is challenging these barriers and helping fathers form healthy connections with their children and families.

“A lot of trying to get my life back on track involved my son being in my life,” said one graduate from the January 2023 cohort. “I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to be a better person and a better father to him.”

ZCFC was made possible by a nationally-funded grant Zepf Center earned in 2021. Since then, over 30 cohorts of fathers have completed the required classes and successfully graduated from the six-week program.

Throughout those six weeks, attendees learn about responsible parenting, child development milestones, economic stability, resume development and the importance of healthy relationships. The program offers several class times and dates to ensure each father has the flexibility to choose a schedule that works best for them.

“These [fathers] have tried everything, but no one taught them how to be a dad,” explained Zepf Center Community Success Coach Ronald Taylor. “We have an opportunity to teach guys who really want to learn and explaining what it means to be a father can change their mindset.”

Even after two years of hard work and countless success stories, the community demand for these resources is still evident. To meet this need, ZCFC continues working with fathers and families in the surrounding area to offer employment support services and vocational programs in addition to parenting classes.

“[This program] made me realize the importance of my children knowing I love them,” said a recent Fatherhood Program graduate. “There is always hope [for fathers]; it’s never too late.”

The next Fatherhood Connection cohort is forming now! Those interested are invited to attend Fatherhood 101 orientation and begin their journey with ZCFC. Introductory classes are held Tuesday at 3 p.m. or Friday at 10:30 a.m. and no appointment is needed.

For more information about this program, visit https://www.zepfcenter.org/northwest-ohio-fatherhood-connection/ or call 419.841.1582.