Resources for Serving Young Fathers.

This compilation includes materials for professionals providing services to young fathers. The first section includes a factsheet that describes the benefits of young fathers’ positive involvement with their child and child’s mother. The second section includes an assessment and checklist to help organizations identify their strengths and areas for growth in working with young fathers and provides steps to make all aspects of programs more young-father-friendly. A workbook is then provided that includes interactive activities that will help fathers, mothers, and program staff learn more about young fathers’ unique challenges and potential. The fourth section provides a tip sheet for recruiting young fathers and includes the following strategies: be visible, let young fathers lead the way, be flexible and make it worth their while, show young fathers ways to improve their lives now, and stay positive. The final factsheet discusses strategies for retaining young fathers including model respect and positivity, promote and provide consistency and support, connect young fathers with mentors, communicate on their terms, and respond to young fathers’ changing needs. Numerous references.