“The nature of fatherhood is that you’re doing something that you’re unqualified to do, and then you become qualified when you do it.” –John Green

FCR would like to say Happy Father’s Day to our Head Start and Early Head Start fathers as well as our staff and community partners. FCR Head Start & Early Head Start honor fathers and male companions who engage and offer commitment to the acts of raising a child.

Fathers who are involved in their young children’s lives often parent differently than mothers; however both contributions and approaches are valuable and appreciated. Male efforts to support their children’s school readiness, and to contribute to the well-being of the family, as well as show gains in their own development and life decisions are all examples of fatherhood.

FCR Head Start & Early Head Start defines fatherhood as any male who shares a role in supporting the mental, emotional and positive development of children through active participation. This person may include, but is not limited to a biological, adoptive or foster parent. He may also be a grandfather, a mentor, a coach, or a member of their faith based community.

FCR Head Start & Early Head Start encourages and supports efforts for male engagement by providing opportunities to share resources and create experiences designed to equip our men with tools to impact positive outcomes for the children in their lives. This means that fathers and staff work as partners to promote the child’s best interest, to exchange knowledge about the child, and to share in program governance. Staff and fathers also work together to establish child and family goals that are motivating and fulfilling. Successful engagement of fathers requires staff to demonstrate cultural awareness, genuine interest and respect for the unique strengths, talents, cultures, goals, and circumstances of fathers. Building a trusting relationship based on knowledge and acceptance of the individual opens the door for meaningful communication. A trusting relationship can lead to positive changes for families and the FCR Head Start & Early Head Start program.