Almost 25 million children in the U.S. are growing up in families without a father present, a number roughly two-and-half times higher than four decades ago. A growing body of research documents ways children benefit when they have engaged fathers, including better school performance, reduced substance abuse, less crime and delinquency, fewer emotional and other behavioral problems, and less risk of abuse or neglect. Federal initiatives have helped states create a broad array of programs that actively engage fathers in the lives of their families.

This web conference will analyze fatherhood research and programming as part of a broader movement to strengthen families. Panelists will also discuss promising strategies that some states are implementing to increase father involvement, and the potential for expanding and improving programs as new and continuing funding sources become available.

Speakers

• Robert D. Johnson, National Fatherhood Leaders Group

• Matthew Stagner, Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago

• Gardner Wiseheart, Healthy Families San Angelo

• Moderator: Patrick Boyle, Youth Today