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At First Step, we believe that every child deserves an involved, committed, and responsible father. Unfortunately, we live in a time when fathers are increasingly estranged from their children. Out-of-wedlock childbearing, divorce, and incarceration are at historically high rates. First Step is dedicated to helping all fathers be the best dads they can possibly be and we know that we cannot accomplish this goal alone. As a valued member in our community, you have surely witnessed the impact of positive or negative fathering. Our community’s children are depending on leaders such as you to help First Step carry out this mission.

On Thursday, May 27, 2010 we will be holding a Fatherhood Summit at Camden Falls, in Tiffin. Please join us to hear from national, state, and local representatives discussing the important role fathers play in the development of their children. From the informative history of the fatherhood movement to inspiring stories of men making a difference in the face of adversity, we assure you this summit will be time well spent. Bring your own fatherhood stories so that we, as a community, may better enter into a dialogue that will not only encourage responsible fatherhood, but also nurture the health and well-being of both our children and the community.

This is a free event. Registration will begin at 8:15 a.m. and the summit will conclude at 2 p.m. A continental breakfast will be available in the morning, with a lunch served at noon. Unfortunately space will be limited, so please RSVP as soon as possible to ensure your place at the table. To reserve your spot, please call First Step at (419) 435-7300 or click on Contact Us. Be sure to include your name, contact information, the names of those attending, and any dietary restrictions present. The Fatherhood Summit is sponsored by First Step, The National Fatherhood Initiative, and The Ohio Commission on Fatherhood. Please contact Jesse Kauffman at First Step for more information.

See the brochure online.

First Step: Family Violence Intervention Center has been awarded a $25,000 grant from the National Fatherhood Initiative. The agency was awarded a capacity-building award in the amount of $25,000 for work with local fathers. First Step was one of 25 recipients selected from 616 applications from organizations throughout the country. First Step is honored that the agency’s continuing work with area fathers has been recognized by a national organization and looks forward to strengthening their services through the guidance of the National Fatherhood Initiative.

Two representatives from the agency will attend a week-long Certification College in Indianapolis, Ind. Feb. 1-5, 2010. During that week, NFI senior staff and other fatherhood consultants will provide technical assistance and training in the areas of the initiative: leadership development, program development, organizational development and community engagement.

Working to meet the needs of our community by promoting peace in the home.