STARRY’s Fatherhood Program utilizes a Father Positive approach. STARRY believes that a strength-based approach provides a greater opportunity to increase father engagement and, more importantly, positively impacts children’s lives.
A Father-Positive approach moves beyond being father-friendly, which means advocating for greater inclusion of fathers. This approach embraces what it means to be father-friendly and is motivated to change the meta-narrative regarding the role fathers play and shapes STARRY’s work with fathers. Our desire to create a space that is Father-Positive is what makes our program unique.
The Fatherhood Effect (Educating Fathers for Empowering Children Tomorrow) program provides parent education and support to fathers. STARRY’s Fatherhood Program provides services to fathers and male caregivers residing in Bell, Coryell, McLennan, and Williamson counties with a child up to 17 years of age. Expectant fathers and teen fathers are also able to access our services.
Thanks to the Texas Health and Humans Services’ Family Support Services funding, along with the generosity of our donors, services are provided at no cost to fathers and male caregivers. Insurance and money are never an issue as we serve clients from varying backgrounds and income levels.
STARRY’s Fatherhood program provides personalized individual and family counseling . Fathers set their own goals, and together, we create and implement a plan to achieve them. Whether it's managing success, navigating relationships, or overcoming personal barriers, this 3-6 month short-term program helps fathers enhance their skills with the support of a dedicated coach. Family coaching or counseling is also available, emphasizing the importance of teamwork to ensure that dads and caregivers receive the support they need to thrive.
STARRY’s Fatherhood Program hosts support groups where fathers and male caregivers can connect, share experiences, and enhance their parenting skills. These groups offer a safe and encouraging environment to navigate the challenges of fatherhood, helping participants build community and strengthen relationships with their families.
This group series is a moment for fathers to pause, reflect, and strategize, no matter where they are in their parenting journey. Fathers and male caregivers gather to share victories and challenges, fostering open conversations about the ups and downs of fatherhood. This program leaves participants inspired, energized, and connected with other fathers with similar experiences.
Join us for a transformative experience focused on growth and learning. Fathers are invited to engage in various father-centered topics designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities that come with fatherhood, providing encouragement and support to meet the demands of their role.
STARRY’s Fatherhood Program offers support services to fathers and male caregivers residing in Bell, Coryell, McLennan, and Williamson counties in Texas. The program is designed for those with children up to 17 years old, as well as expectant fathers. Services are provided at no cost, thanks to funding from the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services’ Prevention and Early Intervention STAR Program and the generosity of donors.
The program offers a range of services, including:
Individual Support: Personalized assistance tailored to the unique needs of each father or male caregiver.
Parenting Skills Groups: Sessions aimed at enhancing parenting techniques and fostering effective communication within families.
Advocacy, Information, and Resources (Fresh A.I.R.): A strength-based approach that builds upon a father’s assets to increase engagement and positively impact children’s lives.
To learn more or enroll in the program, you can contact the Fatherhood Program by calling 254-244-2400 or emailing fatherhoodinfo@STARRY.org. Services are available in multiple locations, including Killeen, Temple, and Waco, with office hours from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Thursday, and 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Fridays.
Yes, the Fatherhood Program welcomes single fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, and other male caregivers who play a significant role in a child’s life. The program is inclusive and designed to support all types of male caregivers in strengthening their families and relationships.
