Ventura County Fatherhood Initiative

The Ventura County Fatherhood Initiative, led by the Department of Child Support Services, is committed to one goal: helping fathers play a stronger role in their children’s lives. By removing barriers and creating father-friendly practices across local agencies, the initiative empowers dads to step up, stay involved, and build thriving families.

Why it matters:
1 in 4 children in the U.S. grow up without a father at home. Research shows the impact of father absence: higher poverty rates, teen pregnancy, behavioral issues, school dropouts, substance abuse, incarceration, and even suicide. When fathers are missing, families and communities suffer.

How Ventura County is changing the story:

• Fatherhood Collaborative – uniting schools, agencies, and organizations to make services more father-inclusive.

• Support Groups & Workshops – creating safe spaces for dads to learn, connect, and grow.

• Father-Focused Events – building community while strengthening father-child bonds.

The goals are clear:

• Promote responsible fatherhood.

• Improve father-child relationships.

• Strengthen parenting skills and knowledge.

• Support personal and economic growth for fathers.

• Build stronger, healthier family systems.

At DWALY, we highlight the Ventura County Fatherhood Initiative because it mirrors our belief: when fathers are supported, kids win, and communities rise.