Workshop proposals for the 2nd Annual New York Fathering Conference at the Westchester County Center must be submitted no later than December 23, County Executive Robert P. Astorino announced. The goal of the conference is to improve outcomes for fathers, particularly in the areas of parenting, employment and wellness. The event will take place on April 5, 2016, and is open to both fathers and service providers.
To receive a workshop proposal application, please email Joseph Kenner at or call (914) 995-3287.
"Being a good father is the most important job a man will ever have," Astorino said. "But sometimes we all need a little help. This conference will focus on some key issues and will provide real tools that fathers and service providers can take back to their homes and communities."
The New York Fathering Conference Program Committee is looking for proposals from professionals who work directly with fathers, who write about fathers or who influence policies. Specific areas of focus that are being sought include:
- Employment issues, such as hiring trends, job training and career building resources, re-entry into the workforce and changing careers;
- Conflict resolution, domestic violence, anger management;
- Navigating governmental systems, such as social services, child support and family court;
- Physical and mental health issues;
- Engaging and retaining fathers in programs, families, schools, etc.
Each workshop will be approximately 90 minutes. It is asked that the workshops have a built-in opportunity for people to talk about and exchange information and experiences.
The New York Fathering Conference is part of Astorino's ongoing Fatherhood Initiative, which seeks to engage the full spectrum of dads with a wide array of services and events throughout the year. A centerpiece of the initiative is the development of a new pilot program that works with noncustodial parents to help them find employment, pay child support, and be actively involved in their children's lives. Visit www.westchestergov.com/dadbethere to learn more.
The theme of this year's New York Fathering Conference is "Taking Care of Business: Equipping Dads for Parenting, Employment and Wellness." It will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 5, 2016, at the Westchester County Center, 198 Central Ave., White Plains. Registration is preferred, but walk-ins will be welcome. For more information, please contact: Joseph Kenner, (914) 995-3287, or Ed Lawson, 845-290-2763, .
The New York Fathering Conference is presented by a coalition of government agencies, nonprofit organizations and other individuals that work directly with fathers and families. These include the Westchester County Department of Social Services; the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families; the White Plains Youth Bureau; the Mount Vernon Youth Bureau; Fathers, Inc.; Child Find of America; My Sisters' Place; the Office of Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand; the Nepperhan Community Center; Volunteer New York!; the Central Hudson Baptist Association; Family Services of Westchester; and the Ministers' Fellowship Council.