Brighter Beginnings knows that fathers are important in children's lives. We're also aware that men are historically overlooked in parenting and family life programs. To address this issue, we offer 3 programs - PAPAS, The Role of Men and our Teen Father Support program.

Every Father Matters

Many of the men and boys who participate in Brighter Beginnings programs say that they themselves grew up without a father and they want to make sure that they are involved as their own children grow up. Brighter Beginnings works with them and affirms their influence, by helping our clients become active, responsive fathers.

PAPAS: Promoting Advances in Paternal Accountability and Success
Our PAPAS program provides a progressive array of activities designed to promote increased involvement of dads in the parenting and nurturing of children.  The program is targeted at men, ages 16 and older in Oakland or Richmond who are fathers of children ages 0-18 and who face multiple barriers to responsible fatherhood.  Our program includes fun and educational support groups that are centered on an 8-week fathering curriculum.  Our groups plan outings and recreational activities for parents and kids.  Every group includes food and small gifts for the participants.

Role of Men
The Role of Men program works with the partners of women in our Black Infant Health program.  We provide individualized approaches and group meetings.

Teen Father Support Program
Our teen fathers receive services from Family Advocates who provide emotional support to men as they develop the skills and knowledge to respond effectively to the issues and challenges surrounding responsible parenthood-visitation, custody, child support, education, employment, career planning, self-sufficiency, relationship building, conflict resolution, and child development. Guided by their Family Advocates, young men learn how to form healthy, supportive family relationships.

Program Contact Information
For information regarding Fatherhood Programs, call Niinana Kweku at (510) 903-7510 or by email at nkweku@brighter-beginnings.org.