New parenting program helps support fathers

     There’s a new group in Jones County, specifically for dads of all ages.

     24/7 Dads is a national program that uses a set of curriculum to facilitate open discussion on a variety of parenting topics.

     The 12-week program is facilitated by Gus Cabrera, a member of Jones County’s CPPC (Community Partnership for Protecting Children) and the Safe and Healthy Youth Coalition.

     “While attending meetings for both organizations and in talking with families that I work with in the area, I realized that there weren’t any parenting programs that were offered specifically for men in the area,” explained Cabrera. His suggesting of implementing 24/7 Dads was met with excitement and gained instant support.

     Cabrera has completed the training necessary to be a 24/7 Dads facilitator. CPPC provided the funds to purchase the curriculum needed. Children and Families of Iowa also helped secure grant funding to financially support the program.

     24/7 Dads stems from the National Fatherhood Initiative (NFI) that began in the 1990s.

     “The mission behind NFI is to transform organizations and communities by equipping them to intentionally and proactively engage fathers in their children’s lives,” said Cabrera. “NFI’s vision is that every child should grow up with an involved, responsible, and committed father.

     “The program focuses on building the man first and the father second.”

     24/7 Dads is a free program that starts on Saturday, Jan. 12. It will be held at the Life Connections Office in Anamosa (209 W. Main St.) from 3 to 4:30 p.m.

     Cabrera said the format of the group is to encourage open discussions. Topics of discussion will include:

     • Childhood male role models

     • Communication between father and child

     • Good fathering practices

     • Co-parenting

     At the close of the 12 weeks, participants will receive a certificate of completion.

     “All perspectives are welcome,” encouraged Cabrera. “Any father, boyfriend, husband, uncle, or grandfather that is hoping to improve as a person, father or father figure is more than welcome to attend.

     “My goal in providing the 24/7 Dads course to the people of Jones County is to help men become better men/fathers and to be a consistent positive role model for their children,” continued Cabrera.

     Cabrera has his associate’s degree as a paralegal from Des Moines Area Community College. He recently graduated from the University of Iowa with a B.A. in creative writing. He is now studying for the LSAT with the hopes of attending law school this fall.

     Cabrera is a parent partner with Children and Families of Iowa for three years.

     “I help families that have an open Department of Human Services case, utilize resources within the community to became a better parent in hopes of being successfully reunited with their children,” he shared.

     He also has four children of his own.

     For more information on 24/7 Dads or to register for the free program, contact Cabrera at gus2984cabrera@gmail.com or 515-201-8823.