Ohio Commission on Fatherhood

The Ohio Commission on Fatherhood is a state-wide commission whose mission is to enhance the well-being of Ohio's children by providing opportunities for fathers to become better parents, partners and providers. Commissioners are appointed according to statute and represent all sectors of the community. The Ohio Commission on Fatherhood is part of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and seeks to strengthen vulnerable Ohio families by funding community based programs that serve low-income fathers.

Many of the fathers served by OCF-funded programs were raised in father-absent homes and therefore lack experience in what it means to be a committed, involved and responsible father. These fatherhood programs help fathers and families:

• improve economic stability when they help fathers prepare for, find and retain employment;

• foster responsible parenting through skills-based classes and individualized mentoring; and

• promote healthy relationships through conflict resolution and communications skills training.

In addition to funding fatherhood programs throughout the state, the Ohio Commission on Fatherhood makes policy recommendations regarding fathers, engages the community and trains county leaders on how to mobilize their community to promote responsible fatherhood. This framework allows the Commission to strategically promote father engagement on all levels.