A PROGRAM OF MAIN STREET FAMILY SERVICES
Support Today. Stronger Tomorrows.
Practical support. Real opportunities. A stronger future – for fathers, their children, and their families.
About Fathers Forward
Fathers Forward is a program of Main Street Family Services designed to support fathers through the journey of fatherhood. We work alongside fathers to identify barriers, build on their strengths, and connect them with services, support, and guidance. Through individualized support, education, and community connections, men can gain the tools they need to be engaged, confident, and successful fathers.
A father’s presence is more important than a father’s provision.
Our Mission
Fathers Forward serves families through the journey of fatherhood by empowering men to overcome barriers that stand in their way. Through support and guidance, men learn to find success in becoming the fathers they aspire to be.
Our Vision
Every father supported.
Every child connected.
Every family stronger.
Every child connected.
Every family stronger.
How We Support Fathers
Fathers Forward offers practical support in the following areas:
Fatherhood & Parenting Support
Individual support, parenting education, fatherhood groups, and opportunities to strengthen father-child relationships.
Goals & Self-Sufficiency
Support with employment, education, personal goals, stability, and overcoming barriers.
Systems Navigation
Information and support to help navigate child support, child welfare, court processes, and other systems. Fathers Forward does not provide legal advice or representation.
Resources & Connections
Connections to housing, transportation, basic needs, and other community resources to support you and your family.
A Mentorship Program
Fathers Forward is a program that offers mentorship, case management, one-on-one guidance, personal advocacy, and group support. Fathers will work one-on-one with a Fathers Forward Program Coordinator that will walk alongside them providing encouragement, support and helps develop the skills and confidence needed in fatherhood.
Program Commitment
Men who participate in Fathers Forward are committing to be in the program for approximately 6 months to a year. This allows time to build meaningful relationships, work toward goals, and see lasting, positive change for themselves, their children, and their families.
Interested in Father’s Forward?
Complete this short form. A Father’s Forward Program Coordinator can follow up to explain the program, answer questions, and determine whether it is a good fit.
- No cost to participate.
- Individualized support.
- One-on-one orientation.
- Typical participation is about 6–12 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate?
Fathers Forward is open to any dad who wants support or guidance in their journey in fatherhood.
What does participation look like?
Participation looks different for each father. You and your program coordinator make an individualized support plan to decide what your participation will consist of. It is generally a mixture of individual goal setting and support, and parenting education groups.
What can I get help with?
FF helps fathers in many ways such as support through court systems, navigating custody arrangements, supervised visits, parent education, providing helpful resources, and more. We do not give legal advice or have lawyers on staff.
What is the cost of Fathers Forward?
There is no cost for Father’s Forward
How soon can I start the Fathers Forward program?
Whether you call, email, get referred, or submit interest online, a program coordinator will reach out to you within a day or two to set up an intake date and a one-on-one meeting.
How long is the Fathers Forward program?
This will depend on what you are looking to get out of the program. Generally, we say to expect the program to last from 6-12 months.
What do I get out of the program?
Besides growing in your fatherhood abilities, and the accomplishment of your personal goals, you will get a Fathers Forward certificate upon completion. During your time you’ll have strength-based coaching, education, resource navigation and more.
Do you provide legal services?
No, we do not provide legal services, but we do have legal resources that specialize in father-based court and custody cases. We can, however, support you through this process.
Program Sponsorship
The Fathers Forward program is sponsored by the State of Minnesota through a grant with the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth and Families.
Ready to Get Started?
Fathers Forward accepts referrals from county and community partners, and fathers may also reach out directly to learn more about the program.
Have questions? Call us at 763-595-1420.