Who We Are
Helping the Children
In 1997, the State of Georgia decided to make a real difference in the lives of its children by establishing what was known as the Fatherhood Initiative. The goal of this program was to help the children by helping the parent who could not or would not support them. In partnership with the Department of Human Resources, Office of Child Support Enforcement, the Department of Technical and Adult Education Special Workforce Services began the Fatherhood Initiative as a pilot program at seven technical institutions. Its goal was to educate non-custodial fathers who were not paying child support. Specifically, it targeted low-income, non-custodial parents, those who lacked a high school diploma or GED, and those who had children receiving TANF benefits. It now functions successfully in 33 technical colleges and 3 colleges with technical divisions.
Helping the Fathers
In 1998 the Georgia Fatherhood Program was working under a new name and with a new vigor. It had served over three thousand participants in its first year in operation statewide. Parents were being educated and trained in life management and survival skills, while being supported emotionally.
Its Purpose
What this unique program does is provide education, training, and job placement for non-custodial parents with court-ordered child support. It does so through the technical colleges and colleges throughout Georgia. This allows the parent to contribute to the economic well being of his children and to the economy of the state.
Services Offered
The Georgia Fatherhood Program has a high standard of services which includes broad assessment of academic skills and workshop competency. Transitional employment is sought for the participant while he takes part in life management and survival skills workshops. Job readiness and workforce preparation are also taught to promote success once the participant has completed the program.