In a modest building near a Fort Wayne bus stop, a quiet but powerful transformation is taking place each week.
On Thursday nights, a group of fathers gather for a shared meal, conversation and a deeper look at what it means to show up for their children, and ultimately, improve their development and learning. Through the Early Years Initiative (EYI), Whitington Services launched the fatherhood engagement program centered on the nationally accredited 24/7 Dads curriculum.
The 12-week program helps men reflect on their own upbringing, understand the generational impact of fathering and intentionally build healthy relationships with their children. Participants include biological fathers as well as grandfathers and other men who have stepped into a parenting role.
Father engagement plays a powerful role in early childhood development and learning. Research shows fathers who are involved from infancy positively influence children’s brain development, health and emotional well-being, with impacts that begin early and last into adulthood – underscoring why fatherhood engagement programs are critical to helping children thrive.
One in three U.S. children lives without their biological father, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, a gap research shows can significantly affect early learning and development. Children with engaged fathers are 43% more likely to earn A’s and 33% less likely to repeat a grade, with benefits that begin in early childhood and extend well beyond the classroom, according to All for Kids.
For Anthony Dorkins, joining Whittington Services’ 24/7 Dads program wasn’t just about improving his parenting skills, it was about finding a place where honesty, accountability and support were not only welcomed but expected, and place where his and his children’s outcomes are prioritized.
A father of three daughters, including a one-year-old, Dorkins said he was introduced to the program by Wilbert Monroe, Whittington’s Fatherhood Engagement Specialist and facilitator of the weekly groups. From the beginning, the space felt different.
“Mr. Monroe doesn’t want you to sugarcoat anything. Don’t feel ashamed to say you need help. That’s been one of the biggest things I’ve taken from this group,” Dorkins said.
Monroe prepares dinner for the group, creating a welcoming space before the evening’s lesson begins. The curriculum explores topics ranging from emotional well-being and communication to employment and financial stability, recognizing strong parenting is deeply connected to their stability.
“Dads are an underserved population in our community. Families and parenting dynamics are changing, and more dads are stepping into primary caregiving roles. Many of them want to be involved, but they don’t always know where to go for support,” said Elizabeth Schaaf, Whitington’s business office manager.
As interest in the program has grown, Whitington expanded services to include open office hours on Tuesdays. During those times, fathers can meet one-on-one with Monroe for parenting support, go over curriculum material or get help with practical needs like employment and housing. On average, about a dozen fathers participate regularly, ultimately impacting dozens of children.
One of the most powerful aspects of the program is the network of fathers who support one another through shared experiences and honest conversation, he said.
Dorkins recalled one session in particular that left a lasting impact.
“We talked about what kind of father you think you are, and that really touched the room. You start realizing there’s more you can do (for your children). It’s not about tearing you down. It’s about adding tools to your toolkit,” he said.
The program translates directly into how he shows up for his daughters, especially when it comes to patience, communication and emotional awareness.
“When I get frustrated now, I don’t just react. I remind myself they’re kids. I’m the adult. Things that make sense to me don’t always make sense to them,” Dorkins said. “This program helped me slow down, listen more and be more present (with my children).”
No comment yet, add your voice below!