“Strengthening families and communities -one man at a time” ™
Fatherhood Initiative
4516 North Market
St. Louis, MO 63113-2601
Ph: 314-652-7204
Fax: 314-535-3155
tford@ccstl.org
Our Mission
The Fatherhood Initiative exists to enhance the lives of men as responsible members of the community and as contributors to the well being of their families.
The role of a man in society and in the family is essential. Statistics show that society bears the financial burden of men who cannot provide for their families, are in and out of jail, are involved in the court system,/ and may be addicted to drugs and alcohol. Statistics also prove that children raised without a positive male role model in their lives are more likely to do a poor job in school. Those children are also at higher risk of getting involved in criminal actions including drugs. Worst of all, those children are likely to repeat the same pattern of negative behavior as they become adults and have children.
This is why our program is so vital. It works toward breaking a repetitive cycle of bad behavior, bad choices and bad role models.
Words From Past Graduates
George came to the Fatherhood Initiative to overcome some personal issues and to strengthen his efforts to improve his situation with child support. He is grateful for the Fatherhood Initiative because he has done the following; 1) Stopped smoking marijauna, 2) Is working with Child Support on paternity testing, 3) Is beginning to look for employment, and 4) His family is more supportive of him since he took the initiative to be part of this program.
James began the Fatherhood Initiative program to improve on some personal issues and to find direction in dealing with child support. He has progressed in the following areas; 1) He is managing his anger better and as a result is more at peace with himself, 2) He has obtained a modification on his child support, and 3) He is now looking for housing in order to receive his children.
Drew became a class participant to keep him motivated each day while not working. He volunteers tutoring students in addition to attending class. He needs financial direction. He believes that since attending classes he is coming more in touch with his inner feelings and personal struggles.
Joshua utilized the class as another positive step in obtaining custody of his daughter. Since joining the program he has 1) Secured housing, 2) Visited with his daughter and 3) Feels more hopeful that his efforts will result in positive things for the future.
Larry a McFarlane resident and wanted to participate in the program to improve his ability to renew himself in dealing with his mental illness. Since participating he 1) Continued on his medications, 2) Cleaned his apartment, 3) Has improved on his personal hygiene and dressing, 4) Is happier personally.
Jeffrey was addicted to heroin and marijuana at a young age and served time for dealing in these substances. He was looking for direction and assistance in coming to the program. He was hesitant at first but by the end of the program he has a job, a modification in child support and motivation to improve his life as he gives back to the community.
Educational Offerings:
We provide day and evening classes and offer a broad curriculum including;
• Depression- Symptoms and management
• Anger Management
• Job skills and interview skills
• Role of a man
• Health issues of men and health screenings
• Legal education, GED & other educational programs
• Financial management
• Child support and custody issues
**An application is required to participate**
If you know of any man over the age of 18 struggling with any issues resulting in his inability to work, pursue his education, struggling to support his children or retreating into a world of his own with poor communication with family and friends- tell him about our program.
Who can we help?
• Veterans
• Men in need of job retraining
• Men seeking GED
• Men having difficulty in relationships
• Men recovering from substance abuse
• Expectant fathers
• Fathers owing child support
A professional case manager is ready to take your application and answer any questions. Call the office at (314)652-7204 Monday thru Friday between 9 and 4 p.m.
Click here to download the Fatherhood Initiative Brochure
