DADS MATTER

The DADS MATTER Program was implemented over a five-year period from September 30, 2020, to September 29, 2025. This program was designed to empower fathers/father figures to enhance relationships with their children/families and improve financial well-being. Fathers/father figures enrolled in the program included those providing care for at least 1 child age 24 or younger and who may also be under/unemployed, residing in a PA-state licensed treatment centers, or have experience with the criminal justice system.

Over the course of five years, the program served 1139 fathers/father figures across 4 counties in southwestern PA (Beaver, Fayette, Washington, Westmoreland), focusing on Responsible Fatherhood, Healthy Marriage/Relationships, and Economic Stability. This accounts for 103% of the initial goal of 1100 fathers/father figures.

The DADS MATTER Program significantly enhanced parenting and co-parenting skills in enrolled fathers/father figures. Feedback consistently highlighted improvements in parenting skills, quality time with children, and financial education, demonstrating the real-world value of our efforts.

Successfully completed fathers/father figures yielded the following outcomes:
• 90% reported improved parenting skills and greater quality time spent with children
• 82% reported obtaining better strategies for co-parenting
• 81% reported improved financial well-being

Additionally, during this 5-year grant cycle, 118 fathers/father figures completed credential training and secured employment in various industries (CDL, Electrician, HVAC, Welding). This yielded an increase in average yearly salaries from $31,858 to $65,583, which is a 106% increase.

The success of the DADS MATTER Program from 2020-2025 reflects the dedication of our staff, community partners, and fathers/father figures. We are proud of the progress made and remain committed to building on this foundation in future initiatives.