by Lynn Johnson, Human Services Director
comments open from May 10 until May 29

Through Child Support Services, a program in the Human Services Department, the Fatherhood Initiative is enhancing customer service for fathers who are unable to pay child support. Research indicates that lack of access to direct services for low-income, non-custodial fathers contributes to inconsistent financial support and poor social outcomes for children without fathers.

The Fatherhood Initiative is promoting responsible fatherhood by improving availability and delivery of services to non-custodial fathers. Some of the services offered include job opportunities, parenting and employment skills, access or visitation with children, and alternative sanctions through the Child Support Services Problem Solving Court.

The results are impressive. To date, the program has accomplished increased access to dads for over 100 children, conducted over 60 classes at the jail and facilitated 100 weekly group support sessions in addition to multiple workshops and training classes. Over $400,000 was collected in 2009 for children who were not receiving financial support from their fathers before.

Through the Fatherhood Program, we are able to strengthen the family unit and help fathers and children alike grow and develop into better people. The children win, the moms win, the fathers win and ultimately, the community wins.

To see what services, classes and resources the Fatherhood Program offers, please see our website. For more information, you can also contact Ray Washington, 303-271-4654 or rwashing@jeffco.us.