The Erie Department of Social Services has 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.

Classes will be directed by Reggie L. Cox, who led the Fathers’ program in Rochester for 12 years and has over 25 years of experience in Human Services. Mr. Cox 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.

“The Fatherhood Connection program is an exciting new collaboration with Say Yes to Education Buffalo and the Greater Faith Tabernacle designed to empower men to be better fathers,” said Social Services Commissioner Al Dirschberger. “Fathers and father figures will learn program solving skills, proactive responses to life stressors, and how to form and maintain healthy relationships.”

Classes in the 13 week Fatherhood Connection series will cover Boyhood, Fatherhood, Parenting, Communication Skills, Anger Management, Conflict Resolution, Values & Behaviors, Problem Solving, and Healthy Relationships, among others. Classes will be held on Thursday evenings from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM beginning July 13th through October 12th.

Individuals interested in participating in Fatherhood Connection may contact John Przybyl, Supervisor, ECDSS, at (716) 858-8767 or via email at john.przybyl@dfa.state.ny.us.