Parenting & personal development group teaches skills to fathers, father figures
The Erie Department of Social Services recently announced the formation of "Fatherhood Connection: Men's Parenting and Personal Development Group," a 13-week series of classes with the goal of empowering men of any age, fathers and father figures to be better parents to the children in their lives.
The "Fatherhood Connection" is co-sponsored by Say Yes to Education Buffalo, program facilitator Reggie L. Cox, and the Greater Faith Bible Tabernacle.
Cox, who led the program in Rochester for 12 years and has over 25 years of experience in human services, will direct classes. He has established "Fatherhood Connection" programs in Monroe, Livingston, Seneca, Steuben, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Genesee counties.
As part of the "Fatherhood Connection," fathers and father figures will learn skills necessary to become more confident and competent fathers, partners and leaders in the community. Fathers will gain an understanding of their attitudes toward parenting, children, family, relationships and life, while increasing their understanding of child development and learning age-appropriate discipline techniques. Fathers will also be empowered to utilize resources to meet parenting, housing, employment, educational and vocational needs.
Courses in the 13-week "Fatherhood Connection" series will cover boyhood, fatherhood, parenting, communication skills, anger management, conflict resolution, values and behaviors, problem solving, and healthy relationships, among others. Classes will be held from 6-8 p.m. Thursdays, July 13 through Oct. 12.
Individuals interested in participating in "Fatherhood Connection" may contact John Przybyl, supervisor, ECDSS, at 716-858-8767 or via email at
[email protected].
