Something for Dads facilitators and members of the development committee from organizations including the South East Health Unit, Kingston Native Centre and Language Nest, Maltby Centre, KEYS Newcomer & Employment Services, Family and Children Services of Lennox & Addington, BGC South East, Kingston Community Health Centres, Resolve Counselling, A Great Start for Families: Kahwà:tsire Ronwatiyenawá:se Centre, and The ARC.
Supporting Fathers, Strengthening Families: The Collaborative Spirit Behind Something for Dads
A groundbreaking program, Something for Dads, has launched in Kingston, Ontario, offering fathers a unique opportunity to grow as parents and strengthen their families. This free, 10-week initiative is more than just a parenting program—it’s a testament to the power of collaboration in addressing community needs. The program was made possible by a grant from the Community Foundation for Kingston & Area, through its Sisters of Providence of St. Vincent de Paul Community Impact Fund.
Empowering Fathers Through Tailored Support
Something for Dads provides a safe and supportive environment for fathers with children under 18 to enhance their parenting skills. The sessions focus on essential topics such as child development, communication, and understanding children’s needs. Recognizing common barriers to participation, the program offers free childminding services, light meals, and transportation support. With two weekly session options starting mid-April, the program is accessible and designed to meet fathers where they are.
The initiative fills a critical gap in the community by addressing the lack of resources specifically tailored for fathers. Bridget Glassco, Project Manager for the Adverse Childhood Experiences & Resilience Coalition (ARC) KFL&A, emphasized that fathers play an integral role in family health but are often underserved in parenting support services. “This program,” she said, “empowers dads to build stronger relationships with their children, their co-parent, and themselves.”
A Model of Collaborative Innovation
“What sets Something for Dads apart,” Bridget notes, “is not only its mission but also how it was developed—a process rooted in collaboration and shared ownership.” The idea emerged from listening sessions conducted by ARC members with local agencies working with children and families. These discussions revealed a pressing need for father-focused parenting support. Instead of importing an existing program, stakeholders decided to create something uniquely responsive to local needs. Resolve Counselling’s Clinical Team Lead, Kaleb Verk, developed the curriculum with input from partners like Kingston Community Health Centres, South East Health Unit, and A Great Start for Families: Kahwà:tsire Ronwatiyenawá:se Centre.
Bridget explained that this collaborative approach ensures sustainability. Rather than relying solely on external funding, participating organizations contribute staff time as facilitators, allowing the program to operate with minimal overhead. This shared commitment has enabled the program to expand beyond initial expectations, projected to run five times annually instead of three.
A Catalyst for Sustainable Change
Something for Dads exemplifies how collaborative grant-making can catalyze systemic change. By fostering partnerships among diverse organizations, the program not only addresses immediate needs but also builds capacity within the community to sustain impactful initiatives long-term.
As Bridget noted, this model allows for continuous feedback and adaptation, ensuring that the program evolves alongside participants’ needs. “It’s a powerful reminder,” she says, “that when people come together with a shared vision, they can create lasting change, fostering resilience in children, families, and the broader community.”
Interested fathers can register by calling or texting 613-539-9948 or emailing info@gsfkr.ca.