We believe that strong, involved fathers are essential to the well-being of children, and by supporting dads, we create stronger families and brighter futures. Through our programs, resources, and community initiatives, we are committed to helping fathers develop the skills, confidence, and connections they need to be present and engaged in their children’s lives. Together, we can build a foundation for healthier families and thriving communities.

Our Mission

To equip fathers and empower families so that children thrive.

Help a father and his children today!

Programs & Services

STRONG FATHERS CLASS

About Strong Fathers

Our Strong Fathers class helps fathers or expectant fathers prepare themselves to take on the responsibilities of fatherhood. This three-week class (9 a.m. to 3 p.m., M–F) is designed to show men not only how to be outstanding role models for their children, but also how to provide for their families and learn critical job-readiness skills. Our Strong Fathers workshop is provided at no cost, and lunch is served at every class. Participants can earn a weekly stipend and receive help with transportation.

How do I enroll?

Call us at 317-921-5935 to set up an orientation. Make sure to bring your I.D.!

EMPLOYMENT & CAREER SERVICES

About

Fathers and Families Center’s Employment, Training, and Career Services provides comprehensive services that are focused on the ABC employment approach (A job, Better job, Career). The steps to our process include job readiness assistance, job placement, post-employment assistance, and career/training certifications. We place a special emphasis on getting our participants ready for high-demand positions around Indianapolis. Find out more below!

Career and Training Certifications

Our career specialists will help you identify the right career path based on your interests, skills, and abilities. We partner with training centers around the city to offer you opportunities to obtain a recognized certification at little or no cost. 

Certifications include: Construction, Forklift, HVAC/Apartment Maintenance, IT, Logistics, and more!

Job Readiness Assistance

Our classroom job readiness sessions focus on crucial steps to prepare you for successful employment.

Sessions include: resume building, employer expectations, dressing for success, mock interviews, company and career tours, job application assistance, and more!

Employment Placement Assistance

After completing job readiness sessions, you’ll be well equipped to start looking for a job. While you’re searching, Employment Specialists will continue to provide support and guidance in finding employment, and they can assist with transportation, work clothes, and other needs. Our team has relationships with more than 70 preferred employers throughout Indianapolis.

HIGH SCHOOL EQUIVALENCY PROGRAM

Value of an HSE Diploma

A high school diploma or High School Equivalency (HSE) is an important building block to pave the way for better employment and pursuing vocational/technical training certifications. Workers who have a high school diploma earn over $8,000 more per year than those who do not. We are here to help you get your HSE diploma to prepare you for a great job and career.

Earning an HSE Diploma

We have classes specifically for our Strong Fathers participants and alumni to help them obtain their HSE diploma. Classes are offered Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9:00am – Noon and 1:00pm – 4:00pm. These classes are highly individualized to meet your learning needs which provides our students with a better chance of receiving their HSE diploma.

STRONG FATHERS GRADUATES ARE…

Better Providers

We offer employment services that help fathers get and keep good jobs. Many of the certifications available through the Strong Fathers program are stepping stones to finding a career.

Better Parents

Our Strong Father’s curriculum encourages men to build meaningful, loving relationships with their children. We also host events like monthly family nights, giving men the chance to celebrate their accomplishments with their children and families.

Better People

We place an emphasis on building participant’s self-esteem, helping them to lead whole, fulfilling lives. Curriculum also focuses on relationship skills, co-parenting, and mental health.

Better Partners

Strong Fathers graduates learn co-parenting skills along with effective communication strategies, allowing them to be better partners. A strong partnerhip among parents makes it easier for children to thrive.

A New Generation of Fatherhood

Today in America, fatherhood is an institution in crisis. We want to do something about it.

CHILDREN THAT GROW UP WITH INVOLVED FATHERS ARE:

as likely to go to college and find stable employment.

less likely to commit suicide.

less likely to live in poverty.

%

less likely to be incarcerated.

The Meaning of Fatherhood

2025 Faces of Fatherhood Luncheon

Friday June 13, 2025 12pm-1:30pm at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown.

The goal of the Faces of Fatherhood Luncheon is to increase public awareness about the importance of fatherhood. It also serves as our flagship fundraising event, raising over $1,000,000 since its inception. A past program participant always serves as the keynote speaker, sharing his story of strength and perseverance, and increasing awareness about the challenges many of them face.

A select number of fathers from across Marion County will be presented with the Heart of a Father Award. These fathers will go through a rigorous nomination and screening process to ensure that they represent the four dimensions of fatherhood at the highest level: Involvement, Consistency, Awareness, and Nurturing. Additionally, they must be actively engaged in their communities through volunteering or other forms of service. To date, over 80 Indianapolis fathers have earned the Heart of Father Award (nominate a father special to you today!).

 

As the luncheon continues to grow each year, reaching over 400 business, civic, and community leaders, we hope that you or your company will support Fathers and Families Center by joining us for this fun and inspirational event! Individual tickets and Corporate Sponsorships are available for purchase online, or by contacting Mike Thompson at mthompson@ffcindiana.org or 317-921-5935