For more information please contact Mark Anderson at 207-874-1111

What is Father's Support?

The Father's Support Program was established at the YMCA in 1988. Over the years, we have worked with hundreds of men seeking answers to the questions of parenting, the father's role in the family, and strong family relationships.

At the YMCA, we recognize the many ways in which families are defined today, and welcome this diversity in all of our programming, including the Father's Support Group.

The Father's Support Group is based on three components:

Interested fathers can participate in any combination of program components. New participants are encouraged to meet with Program Coordinator, Mark Anderson, to establish which programs will best meet the needs of the participant.

Father's Support participants will also receive a YMCA Family Membership at no cost. This membership will cover the entire family, even if the participating father is not living with the children.

Is it for me?

If you are facing issues regarding visitation rights, custody issues or parenting skills, and you are looking for support, this program is for you.

How much will it cost?

This program is fully funded by the United Way of Greater Portland. There is no cost to you.

Support Group: The goals of the Support Group component are: Promote resiliant parenting skills Cultivate responsibility Raise self-esteem Identify community resources for fathers and children within the YMCA istelf and Greater Portland, and to provide the necessary connections Empower self-determination through a dynamic group process This Support Group meets every Tuesday evening from 6:30 - 8:00 at the Greater Portland YMCA. Drop-ins are welcome.	Community Descussion: The Community Descussion series includes a bimonthly speaker and / or panel discussion. Here we will focus on the tough questions and answers about being a parent in today's ever changing world. By Bringing community providers, moms, dads, and children together for healthies conversations about family, we are defining our own communities! To learn more about upcoming Community Discussions, contact at 207-874-1111, ext. 127.
Educational Program: This 8-week Educational Program will focus on such issues as: Protecting, teaching, and enlightening your child Childhood Development Disipline and boundaries Parenting and substance abuse Parenting and housing challenges Parenting and employment	Stop by and see what Father's Support can do for you!

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The Cumberland County YMCA, with its Greater Portland , Casco Bay Regional, YMCA at Pineland and Otter Pond Camp branches, is committed to building strong kids, individuals, families and communities through programs and services that promote a healthy spirit, mind and body for all, regardless of ability to pay.