The Fatherhood Project launched its annual appeal this week, with Patron John Butler encouraging locals to make a real difference in the lives of children, fathers and families in their local neighbourhood by making a donation.
A father of two, John believes The Fatherhood Project is fulfilling a vital role in the community.
“It’s great to be a part of something that is progressive, and offering support to a group of people who don’t necessarily have a lot of support,” he said.
“It’s such a huge thing becoming a father. Along with being an amazing, life-changing and awesome experience, it’s also scary and confusing and frustrating. And sometimes you just feel lost and you don’t know exactly what to do.
“I encourage everyone to support this appeal.”
The Fatherhood Project is a local, non-profit organisation that aims to improve the wellbeing of local children by increasing the proportion of Dads who are actively and lovingly engaged in their children’s lives.
“We do this by developing and delivering groundbreaking educational and mentoring programs and resources that support, encourage and celebrate ALL fathers.
“In summary, we help men be the best Dads they can be,” says The Fatherhood Project Founder Colin George.
The Fatherhood Project runs a number of different programs – including Building Better Dads, for new and expectant Dads which is all about supporting fathers from the very beginning of their fatherhood journey.
The course is the only one of its kind in Australia, and fulfils an urgent need not met by traditional pre- and post-natal classes.
It’s free of charge and is run by skilled mentors who are also experienced fathers.
“All of our programs are developed in response to leading research in the areas of fatherhood, parenting, relationships and child development.
“By equipping and educating fathers, we’re working on an issue that is at the core of our nation’s well-being,” says Mr George.
The Fatherhood Project also runs Long Distance Dads for fathers who work or travel away for long periods, and an Indigenous Dads Circle.
The stats show that Dads who participate in their programs enjoy improved relationships with their partner and a closer bond with their child.
“Over 40 per cent of marital and de facto relationships now end in divorce or separation. Heartbreakingly, in most cases, it’s the innocent children who suffer the most,” says Mr. George.
“Mothers do a fantastic job, but they often struggle when they have to do it own their own.
“The statistics show that children without actively engaged fathers or father figures have the odds stacked against them.
“They are at increased risk of poverty, depression and suicide, drug and alcohol abuse, physical and sexual abuse, teenage delinquency, and more.”
Since 2003, fathers all over the region, and their families, have been turning to The Fatherhood Project for help.
In response, they’ve provided over 1000 local Dads with the courage, support and confidence to embrace fatherhood head-on.
The Fatherhood Project programs are so popular that they cannot meet current demand. They receive minimal government funding and rely on the generosity of the community to keep going.
And their aim is to deliver these programs in all towns throughout the region, and then across Australia.
They need to raise $50,000 by June 30 in order to give more local Dads the opportunity to join their programs.
You can help The Fatherhood Project to create a brighter future for our local children, families, and communities by making a donation today.
Your tax-deductible contribution, no matter how large or small, will support essential programs and initiatives that educate men, giving them the skills they need to be the fathers their children need them to be.
To donate to the Fatherhood Project Appeal, visit www.fatherhood.net.au or send your donation to The Fatherhood Project, PO Box 562, Lismore NSW 2480.
