FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nov. 11, 2005

CONTACT: Betty C. Andrews, Andrews Media, (515) 288-7171, bettycandrews@yahoo.com
Lisa Lacher, (515) 271-3119, lisa.lacher@drake.edu

DRAKE TO HOST ‘THE FATHERHOOD CONNECTION:’ MOBIILIZING THE DES MOINES COMMUNITY AROUND RESPONSIBLE FATHERHOOD NOV. 17

The Polk County Fathers and Families Coalition will present “The Fatherhood Connection” from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17, at Drake University’s Olmsted Center, 29th Street and University Avenue.

The public is invited to this free half-day event, which focuses on improving outcomes for children through support of responsible fatherhood. Breakfast and lunch are included. To register, call (515) 288-7171 by Tuesday, Nov. 15.

"In this complex society, there are so many demands on children to grow up fast that they depend on the guidance of both parents. Fathers are important, they have a monumental impact on their children's lives." says Elaine Szymoniak, former senator, coalition member and mother of five children.

“The Fatherhood Connection” is designed to create community synergy by bringing together people and organizations including business, community, faith-based, human service, government, education, and family groups to address family needs in the Des Moines area, identify services and address gaps in services for fathers, families and children.

The conference features resources, interactive opportunities and workshop topics such as the importance of fatherhood; engaging women around fatherhood; providing services to resident and non-resident fathers; and connecting community resources in supporting fathers.

The keynote speaker is Ron Mincy, professor of the social policy and social welfare practice at Columbia University, in New York City. Mincy is a leading fatherhood researcher and founder of the Strengthening Fragile Families Initiative. Other national fatherhood experts presenting at the event are Dana Reichert, senior fellow of the Center for Public Strategies in Indianapolis and Joseph T. Jones, founder of the Center for Fathers, Families and Workforce Development in Baltimore.

Fathers are a critical part of every child’s life. Having an involved father reduces a child’s chances of drug usage, criminal involvement, dropping out of high school, teen pregnancy, and living in poverty. Active fathers also improve the chances of having higher grades in school, a love of learning, a strong sense of security, good physical well-being, and healthy relationships throughout life.

“The Fatherhood Connection” is part of Polk County Fathers and Families Coalition’s dedication to creating a community where all children grow up in strong, healthy relationships with their parents. "Both men and women need to realize how important community is in supporting both parents to have a positive impact on children,” says Szymoniak.

“The Fatherhood Connection” is made possible due to support of the Polk County Fathers and Families Coalition, the Annie E. Casey Foundation, Drake University Head Start, Iowa Department of Human Services and Making Connections Des Moines.

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