Services, classes, events, information and more is available to fathers who want to be more active and involved in their children’s lives. Click here for groups, classes, activities, and other current events or services for fathers, children, and families.

There’s help when you want it
- For Expectant Fathers
- For First-Time Fathers

Help To Be A Dad

Every person, every situation involving a father who may not physically be in a family setting with his children is different. However, here are some places to turn to when you want to connect with your children.

Young Parents Network
YPN offers individual help, group help or can guide you to the services unique to your situation. Contact us confidentially at DadCoach@NowBeADad.com or call us toll-free at 1-877-YPN DADS (976-3237).

YPN is here to help fathers learn to become dads and has been serving fathers and families in Linn, Benton, Delaware, Dubuque, Iowa, Johnson, Jones and Washington counties for years.

ISU Extension
The Iowa State Extension service offers on-line, timely information on parenting at www.extension.iastate.edu/homefamily/parenting They also have many free of charge publications on parenting. Call 1-800-262-3804 for more information.

HACAP
There are many services available from HACAP including:

Head Start: fathers work with caring staff to set goals, attend father learning groups, gain financial help in pursuing a GED, maintaining employment or linking to other community services. A Head Start beginning is a call to (319) 393-7811.
Crisis Child Care: childcare is available for children whose parents may be in a counseling program (Linn County – children 0-14) Call 319-393-6355, a 24 Hour Crisis Line to speak to a HACAP staff member.
Homeless Family Housing: Call 319-393-7811 for more information about transition or permanent housing, reuniting with your family and other income related services.

WAYPOINT SERVICES
Contact Waypoint for more information about childcare services, counseling and support groups primarily for children and teens who are victims of domestic violence situations. Waypoint has skilled professional help and can be reached on-line or at (319)365-1458 Ext. 131.

PARENT EDUCATION CONSORTIUM
You can reach the PEC website or call them at (319) 399-6809. They offer parenting classes as well as DVD’s, books and articles on parenting for loan or to keep. Classes are generally available in the evening in their SW Cedar Rapids location.

Sometimes just being with your children is “priceless”
Walks in the park. Going to see a family movie. Bike riding. Just “hanging out”.
Fathers can find lots of ways to spend valuable quality time with their children.

If you live in the Linn County area, Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation has many, many programs, classes and fun ideas that a father and his children can take advantage of. Click on to their program catalog for a wide range of program options or call them at (319) 286-5731 to find a program or activity just for you.