Yesterday I had the pleasure of joining the Center For Urban Families (CFUF) and Chairman of the Board David Warnock for the Responsible Fatherhood Football Brunch & Forum. I brought along my brother, and we really enjoyed spending time with some 30 Baltimore fathers and their sons and hearing about the struggles fathers face today in providing for their families. Before the start of the Ravens-Redskins game, the group discussed ways to interrupt the harmful cycle of boys being raised without fathers. And we watched a powerful documentary about Ray Lewis and his relationship with his father.
In the U.S., approximately one-third of all children live apart from their biological fathers, according to the most recent Census Bureau data. Research consistently shows these children face several disadvantages compared to their peers who live with their biological (or adoptive) parents. A few key findings include: They are more likely to be poor, to use drugs and to experience educational, health, emotional and behavioral problems, according to the National Fatherhood Initiative.
In Maryland, the Center for Urban Families is one of several organized groups that engage fathers and help them overcome the obstacles that prevent them from taking an active role and interest in the lives of their children. CFUF was started in 1999 by Joseph T. Jones, Jr. Working at the time as a social worker for the Baltimore City Health Department, Joe saw firsthand that many fathers were committed to their children, but lacked the skills needed to find meaningful, sustained work so they could provide for them. CFUF helps fathers to reconnect with their families, find employment, resolve child support issues, overcome addiction, and learn parenting skills.
The Ravens lost yesterday, but the game was a great way to bring us all together and reflect on the importance of fathers in our lives.
CFUF and similar fatherhood groups are important partners in our efforts to strengthen Maryland families and make sure all children have the resources and support they need to thrive. I encourage you to call your local Department of Social Services or check out our Fatherhood Initiatives webpage to learn more about fatherhood programs and groups that are active in your area.
