NCUS Forms Fatherhood Coalition
Creates a community of active fathers; reduce the barriers for fathers to be in their child(s) lives; provides resources for fathers to become active in their child(s) education
COLUMBUS, OH– The National Center for Urban Solutions (NCUS) has taken the lead in forming the Fatherhood Coalition in partnership with Franklin County Job and Family Services.
Since children who do not have continual engagement with their father are twice as likely not to enter college or find stable employment after high school, 75% more likely to have a teen pregnancy and 80% more likely to spend time in jail (The Children’s Bureau), the organization believed it was imperative to form a coalition that focused on fathers becoming actively involved in their child’s lives.
“Due to 73% of African American children not being kindergarten ready in Franklin County (Future Ready Columbus), we knew it was our duty to provide for our community,” said, John Gregory, Founder of the NCUS. “This coalition will be the first step in ensuring our children are prepared for success.”
This is a network of various organizations which will help to provide resources such as case management, 21st century career coaching and pathway training, child support services, supportive services, workforce solutions and legal support. By creating this community of active fathers, we hope this coalition will stimulate the needs of our men so that they can continue to be active fathers in their children’s lives.
“Often times, as fathers, we tend to focus so much on our family that we forget to check on ourselves,” said Darrell O’Neal, Founder of Fatherhood Fraternity. “Having people around you, going through the same experiences, helps you not only be a better person for yourself, but motivates you to be better for your family.”
The Fatherhood Coalition member organizations include, The African American Male Wellness Agency, Future Ready Columbus, Action For Children, Community Development for All People, Columbus Public Health, Family Stabilization Unit, Franklin County Child Support Enforcement Agency, Jewish Family Services, Moms2B, Real Men Real Talk, Lit Learners!, Fatherhood Fraternity, Dope Black Dadds LLC., Dadds Enterprise and Dads Financial Legacy Group.
The coalition meets virtually on the first Tuesday of every month at noon. If you’re interested in joining the coalition, please email mwhite@aawellness.org.
