In Alexandria, Fatherhood Engagement is focused on supporting fathers as they work to be more present, engaged, and empowered in their children’s lives regardless of their circumstances or family structure. 

The City of Alexandria’s Fatherhood Engagement Program meets fathers where they are, offering support that extends beyond parenting alone. Fathers receive guidance on employment readiness, co-parenting, navigating the court system, and building emotional and financial stability. The program is designed for fathers who want to grow, learn, and strengthen their role within their families and the community. 

As fatherhood engagement coordinator Delaney Colbert explains, the program is focused on growth, not perfection. 

“This program isn’t for ‘bad dads.’ It’s for fathers who want to be better. We’re not looking for perfection. We are looking for progress.”

A key part of Fatherhood Engagement is recognizing how stability in a father’s life can positively impact an entire household. Small milestones often lead to major change. Delaney shared how helping a father earn his driver’s license for the first time opened doors for employment, independence, and greater involvement in his child’s life. This paints a picture of how targeted support can create long-term benefits for families. 

Fatherhood Engagement also emphasizes the importance of fathers remaining involved, even when parents are not together. 

“Even if mom and dad aren’t together, fathers still want to be a positive leader in their children’s lives. When the father is stable, it helps stabilize the entire family.”

The program includes structured group sessions, accountability partners, and one-on-one support, allowing fathers to learn from one another, build accountability and form connections. Participants range widely in age and background, reflecting on the program’s belief that learning and growing can happen at any stage of life. 

Looking ahead, Fatherhood Engagement is expanding to include a financial education component focused on budgeting, credit improvement, child support, and long-term planning such as homeownership and estate preparation. This next phase reinforces the connection between financial stability and family well-being, helping fathers build more secure futures for their children.

Fatherhood Engagement reflects Alexandria’s commitment to strengthening families by supporting the whole household. By investing in fathers, the City is helping create healthier relationships, more stable homes, and brighter outcomes for children. 

To learn more about Fatherhood Engagement and available services please visit: alexandriava.gov/child-and-family-services/fatherhood-engagement