As Father’s Day approaches, several community organizations and supporting agencies are banding together to celebrate Fatherhood Week. This nationally observed week is an opportunity to spread appreciation for fathers, provide them with vital resources, and host local fatherhood events throughout the community.
Zepf Center’s nationally recognized Fatherhood Connections Program (ZCFC) team is excited to participate in this year’s events and join the community to support, empower, and recognize the incredible fathers served by the Program. Since 2021, the ZCFC Program has offered classes and resources to help low-income fathers gain the skills to become better parents and achieve economic stability.
Ahead of Fatherhood Week, the ZCFC team kicked off celebrations by hosting a “Franks for Fathers” event. Held at Zepf Center’s Ashland location, this event offered freshly grilled hot dogs and provided space for community building. Beyond the opportunity to connect with their neighbors and peers, attendees were provided with information about ZCFC and given the opportunity to speak with Program participants and graduates.
“Our Fatherhood Connections Program is all about empowering these men to be the best version of themselves while also building a stable foundation for them to grow and thrive,” said Program Director Leigh Guerra. “Through our curriculum, these men learn how to show up for their families, but also how to show up for themselves.”
ZCFC was made possible by a nationally funded grant earned by Zepf Center in 2021. Since then, over 53 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.
“[The staff] always say, ‘you're a father for life,’ and that is what sticks with me—no matter what I have done to be out of the picture or screw up, my children will always still need me just as I need them,” said a Program participant. “No matter how much I used to think I didn't deserve to be in their lives, I want to be the best I can for my children.”
Even after three years filled with graduations, events, and classes, the community continues to seek out the ZCFC program and the resources its team provides. Because of the ongoing need, program staff have gone above and beyond to find innovative ways to maintain support for the fathers.
Recently, ZCFC started a Facebook group for program participants to encourage support and help build community even after graduation. The staff also use this group as a platform to share job opportunities, invite group members to events, and provide encouragement for these individuals as they continue their fatherhood journey.
“Our Fatherhood Program is unique because it focuses on supporting the individual father and building his skills,” said Zepf Center CEO Deb Flores. “This support allows dads to get the help they need and puts them in a better position to reconnect with and become a key member of their families.”
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, CLICK HERE!