Future Dads

VISION:

Empowering young fathers to be confident, responsible, and nurturing role models who lead their families and communities toward a brighter future.

MISSION:

The Future Dads Program aims to provide positive leadership, resources, and support to undergraduate brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. By addressing the unique challenges faced by young fathers aged 18-25, the program seeks to cultivate strong, capable fathers through education, workforce development, parenting development, and mentoring.

PURPOSE:

  • To develop a Future Dads Program focusing on the Fraternity’s Undergraduate Brothers.
  • To provide positive leadership, resources, and support to all program participants and undergraduate chapters.
  • To proactively address the lack of support and resources for young fathers, especially those between the ages of 18-25.
  • To support young men who become dads without male parenting role models.

FOUR PILLARS TO SUCCESS:

  1. Education
  2. Workforce Development
  3. Parenting Development
  4. Mentoring (matching young fathers with seasoned fathers)

Proposed Activities:

Education:

  1. Workshops and Seminars: Regular sessions on child development, effective communication, and emotional intelligence.
  2. Parenting Classes: Covering topics such as child health, nutrition, and safety.
  3. Financial Literacy: Courses on budgeting, saving, and financial planning for young families.
  4. Academic Support: Tutoring services and academic counseling to help young fathers balance their studies and parenting responsibilities.

Workforce Development:

  1. Career Counseling: Guidance on career paths, job search strategies, and resume building.
  2. Internships and Job Placements: Partnerships with local businesses and organizations to provide employment opportunities.\
  3. Skills Training: Workshops on job readiness skills, including interview techniques and workplace etiquette.
  4. Networking Events: Opportunities to connect with professionals and potential employers.

Parenting Development:

  1. Parenting Support Groups: Peer-led groups where young fathers can share experiences and advice.
  2. Parent-Child Activities: Organize events that encourage bonding, such as father-child sports days, reading programs, and arts and crafts.
  3. Access to Resources: Providing information on local resources, such as childcare, healthcare, and legal aid.
  4. Fatherhood Coaching: One-on-one sessions with experienced fathers to address specific parenting challenges.

Mentoring:

  1. Mentor-Mentee Matching: Pairing young fathers with seasoned fathers who can provide guidance and support.
  2. Mentorship Training: Training for mentors to ensure they are equipped to provide effective support.
  3. Regular Check-Ins: Scheduled meetings to discuss progress, challenges, and successes.
  4. Mentorship Activities: Joint activities for mentors and mentees, such as community service projects and social outings.
Implementation Steps:

  1. Program Promotion: Promote the Future Dads Program through fraternity meetings, campus events, and social media.
  2. Resource Allocation: Secure funding and resources to support program activities.
  3. Partnership Development: Establish partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and experts.
  4. Volunteer Recruitment: Recruit and train volunteers to serve as mentors, facilitators, and program champions.
  5. Monitoring and Evaluation: Regularly assess program effectiveness and make adjustments based on participant feedback and outcomes.
By implementing these activities and adhering to the program’s vision and mission, the Future Dads Program will provide invaluable support to young fathers, helping them to succeed as parents, students, and future leaders.