June 2010Vol. 11, No. 5The National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse
"We all know the remarkable impact fathers can have in our children's lives. So today, on this 100th anniversary of Father's Day, take a moment to celebrate responsible fatherhood and the men who've had the courage to step up, be there for our families, and provide our children with the guidance, love and support they need to fulfill their dreams" First Lady Michelle Obama, June 21, 2009
The strength of a father's presence not only provides basic benefits for raising healthy children, it can actually improve child outcomes. When fathers are involved in the lives of their children in a positive way, their children are more likely to experience better friendships, fewer instances of criminal behaviors and behavioral problems, lower incidences of substance abuse, a greater capacity for empathy, and higher educational achievement than average.
The bottom line is that responsible, involved fathers benefit children! This is the overarching message of the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse (NRFC), which is funded by the Administration for Children and Families' Office of Family Assistance. Through this portal, fathers, families, and program leaders from local, State, and Federal organizations can locate the latest research on responsible fatherhood. This includes the most up-to-date information on responsible fatherhood programs whose promising practices are making a significant impact within the communities they serve.
Highlighted on the NRFC website are grassroots programs like the South Carolina Center for Fathers and Families and The Ridge Project (Ohio), which are successfully demonstrating that fathers can overcome the barriers to healthy parent involvement. Other resources are targeted to a variety of audiences, including:
- Fatherhood professionals
- Fathers and families
- Spanish speakers
- Grantees
- Community partners
- Policymakers
- Researchers
For fathers who are actively and intimately engaged in their children's lives, the NRFC has resources to help them to strengthen their ability to nurture their children's abilities, uniqueness, and success. Resources like "Spotlight on Dad" and multimedia Public Service Announcements are designed to encourage, educate, and equip fathers from all walks of life.
"Take time to be a dad today" is more than a catch phrase. It represents the mission, vision, and hope for strengthening families, and the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse is proud to be a part of this great endeavor!
Visit the NRFC website to find resources on fatherhood issues:
www.fatherhood.gov
Contributed by Randell Turner of the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse.