The Bridge for Youth is excited to share more about our new Young Fathers Group. If you are a young father seeking support, join us on Wednesdays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Contact [email protected] to learn more.
“Young fathers are very aware of the social pressures and expectations being set on them,” reflected James Mullins, Aftercare Case Manager at The Bridge for Youth. “It can be very overwhelming to deal with, especially with no one to help prepare them. That’s why we’re here to walk alongside them.”
Expanding the ways we support youth, The Bridge has introduced a new Young Fathers Group. A safe, non-judgmental space for young fathers ages 15 to 24 to receive resources, find support, and build community.
“There isn’t enough support out there for young fathers. We hope this group helps empower young men stepping into fatherhood as we help create stronger families,” James asserted.
Together, participants grow as parents and individuals. Typical group sessions include a space to vent, time for goal setting and accountability, strength-building exercises, and resource sharing.
“The Young Father’s Group is a space where young men can find consistency and support that holds them accountable to their personal goals,” James shared. “We’re walking alongside these young men, building trust, and helping them steer the path as they step into fatherhood.”
Hear directly from a youth on what this support group means to him:
To me, fatherhood means committing my life to the elevation of my family and community. I need to be present, accountable, and intentional.
This is my first time experiencing being a parent. I never really had a dad of my own, so being active and present for my daughter means a lot to me. Every day, she becomes more independent and unique. I don’t want to miss any of those moments.
When I first came to this group, I was hoping to create better outcomes in my co-parenting situation. What I’ve gotten out of being here has become so much more. Just knowing there is a circle of men around me who get it, who I can talk to and grow with, means a lot to me. It’s a reminder that I don’t have to do this on my own.
I appreciate the time we spend learning from each other, talking about the problems we’re facing, and supporting each other.
The staff at The Bridge has taught me that it’s up to me to make routines and traditions in my household. I’ve also learned I am in control of changing my outcomes.
As a young father, it can be hard to find support. But this group has taught me that it takes all of us to be present and support each other. We stay connected, hold each other accountable, and work on becoming better men for our families.
I want to raise myself up to be better, so I can be the best father I can be. This is the perfect space for that. The Young Fathers Group is a sacred place for me. You will walk out different than when you came in.
