When L. Swinson joined the Fatherhood Engagement Program at the Department of Community and Human Services, he was not looking for recognition. He was looking for connection, accountability, and motivation.
What he found was unity, accountability, and a renewed sense of himself as a father and a man.
“That’s What I Needed at the Time.”
For Mr. Swinson, the draw was simple but powerful.
“It was an all-men’s group, fathers talking to fathers. We could lean on each other,” he shared. “That’s what I needed at the time.”
The program created space for open conversations about parenting, personal challenges, and growth. For many fathers, that kind of environment is rare. For him, it was transformational.
A Brotherhood That Walks the Talk
One word stood out when asked about the biggest lesson he learned.
Unity.
“When I had a problem, the fathers were there. I could make a phone call right there on the spot,” he said. “They don’t just talk it. They walk it.”
That consistency built trust. It was not just a weekly session. It was a support system and a reminder that he did not have to navigate fatherhood alone.
A Relationship That Keeps Climbing
When asked how his relationship with his daughter has changed, his answer was immediate.
“It just gets better and better. It’s always uphill when it comes to my daughter. You’ve got to have a positive attitude no matter what.”
That upward climb reflects the mindset shift he describes throughout the program. It is not about perfection. It is about perspective and consistency.
Learning to Communicate Differently
Through weekly virtual sessions, he leaned in. He listened more. He asked questions. He spoke up.
“I didn’t really have an attitude,” he explained, “but I kind of took things as they were. The classes helped me learn how to talk to people better.”
What started as simply attending sessions became something deeper.
“It made me feel at home.”
That sense of belonging helped him open up and recognize something important about himself.
More Discipline. A New Perspective.
One of the most meaningful shifts came internally.
“I learned I have more discipline than I thought,” he shared. “Sometimes I let anger or my ego get in the way. But when you get around other guys and let stuff off your chest, it takes the edge off life.”
He now approaches situations with a more positive outlook. Where he once felt closed in, he feels more open. When frustration may have led, reflection now guides his response.
Connections that Continue
Although his job is demanding, he still hoped to reconnect with the group for activities like biking or bowling. The relationships formed during the program mattered and continues to matter.
The impact has extended beyond his home life. As he mentors younger men in his field, he carries forward the same lessons of patience, communication, and self-discipline that strengthened his role as a father.
A Message to Other Fathers
His advice is simple.
“Definitely do it. If you have issues about yourself, about fatherhood, about raising kids, or even mental or physical challenges, it’s always good to have someone you can lean on. And they keep everything anonymous.”
For this father, the program was more than 12 weeks.
It was a reminder that strength grows in community, that growth requires openness, and that fatherhood, when supported by unity, continues to move in a positive direction.
Applications are now open for Men, Money, and Family Confidence 2026 through the Department of Community & Human Services. This upcoming series helps fathers strengthen financial, career planning, and overall family stability.
To learn more about Fatherhood Engagement, please visit: alexandriava.gov/child-and-family-services/fatherhood-engagement