Zepf Center is proud to announce continued funding for the Northwest Ohio Fatherhood Connection (NWOFC) Program from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Family Assistance. The five-year award, totaling $6.25 million ($1.25 million annually), will allow the organization to continue its impactful work in empowering fathers and strengthening families across Northwest Ohio.
As part of this new chapter, Zepf Center has named Robert Bass as the program's Project Director. A former Zepf Center employee, Bass brings seven years of experience in fatherhood programming, having served as a facilitator, Education Success Coach, and Business Outreach Coordinator. He also has more than two decades of pastoral leadership in Toledo and 12 years of experience as both a teacher and assistant principal.
"This is an exciting moment for our Fatherhood program and the families we serve," said Zepf Center CEO Deb Flores. "Robert Bass is a visionary leader whose passion, experience, and community connections will help us expand our impact, strengthen outcomes, and create even greater opportunities for children and families across our region."
Led by Zepf Center, the NWOFC Program promotes responsible parenting, healthy relationships, and economic stability, helping hundreds of local fathers gain the skills and confidence needed to thrive as parents, partners, and providers. With renewed support, the program will expand its reach and continue to foster positive outcomes for fathers, children, and families throughout the region.
"As I begin this new chapter with Zepf Center, I am excited to work alongside this outstanding team to create positive change in our community," said Bass. "My life's mission has always been to help people grow and, through the resources [like] Zepf Center and the Fatherhood Connection program, I look forward to strengthening families, equipping fathers, and empowering our community."
The NWOFC Program serves adult fathers ages 18 and older, as well as father figures with children up to age 24, including biological, expectant, adoptive, and step-fathers. Through evidence-based workshops and individualized support, participants receive parenting and co-parenting skill development, healthy relationship education, and economic stability services, including job training, placement, and ongoing support.
In the next five years, the NWOFC Program aims to serve more than 1,000 fathers, creating lasting benefits for their children, co-parents, and families. By investing in fathers and providing meaningful support, the program contributes to stronger, more connected, and more resilient families across Northwest Ohio.
With the new program fully operational, Zepf Center is now actively enrolling new participants for the upcoming 2026 cohorts. Fathers throughout Northwest Ohio who are looking to reconnect with their families, develop life skills, and build a supportive network are encouraged to apply by calling 419-841-7701 or by attending program orientation on Tuesdays at 3 p.m. or Thursdays at 10 a.m.