Ryan’s Story

At 7 years old, Ryan was removed from his mother’s home and placed in SCO’s Foster Care program. Options for exploring his interests and creativity were limited. But that all changed for Ryan when his mentor at SCO encouraged and empowered him to pursue his dreams.

This mentorship broadened Ryan’s world and opened doors to opportunities. He discovered his abilities and strengths, nurtured a love for science, and developed his networking skills. Today, Ryan is proud to pay his experience forward by mentoring, encouraging, and guiding younger children at SCO.

Ryan is now a sophomore majoring in Biology at Jamestown Community College. SCO assisted him with transportation, college applications, and opportunities for financial aid to help him fulfill his potential and continue his education.

“Thank you for investing in my future,” said Ryan. “There is so much I would not have been able to do without the care and support that I received from SCO Family of Services.”

Manuel’s Story

Manuel is a man with a plan. He loves to cook and aspires to be a chef at a 5-star restaurant one day. Until then, he hones his skills at home preparing his children’s favorite meals each week. A hard-working, single father of three teenagers, ‘family first’ is his mantra and guiding force through good times and bad.

When a series of unfortunate events caused Manuel to lose his job, fall behind in rent, and eventually lose his apartment, he worried about his kids, he worried for himself; he needed to find a way to keep his family together.

Manuel and his children moved into SCO’s Flushing Family Residence in Brooklyn to help him get back on his feet. Manuel recalls, “They gave us a second chance at life. SCO provided me with a roof over my head, access to food pantries, and even provided us with fun and recreation that lifted our spirits.”

While at the shelter, the family received counseling, housing services, and family support services to ease the transition. Manuel laid out a clear path for his family. His goal was to “find us a home, build a foundation, and get the kids in school.” He wasted no time in setting that plan in action. Manuel found steady employment working at a men’s shelter, which he recalls “opened my eyes and pushed me to want to be better and do better for my family.” Staff helped Manuel find an apartment suitable for his large family and their cat Patrick, who had been living with a friend. And all three children settled into their new schools and new life.

“SCO is heaven sent,” exclaimed Manuel. “I am able to do more for my family now and live a productive life.”

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Fathers’ Program

SCO’s Fathers’ Program helps fathers reconnect with their children and develop essential parenting skills through classes, workshops, and support groups – plus special events for the whole family. The program provides a supportive environment where fathers can feel safe to share their concerns and learn from one another. This program is designed for non-custodial fathers in partnership with the Department of Youth and Community Development.

The Fathers’ Program offers:

  • Parenting skills classes
  • Individual and family counseling
  • Case management
  • Anger management classes
  • Domestic violence prevention classes
  • Parent advocacy
  • Child support & visitation assistance
  • Educational & employment counseling
  • Father-to-Father mentoring
  • Family budgeting
  • Mediation & conflict resolution training
Awards

2018 & 2019 Best Fatherhood Program – New York City’s Department for Youth and Community Development and the 2019 Brooklyn Defender Services Award.

Who Can Benefit from this Program

Non-custodial fathers who need parenting, anger management or domestic violence classes and case management support.

Age Criteria or Other Eligibility Requirements

Non-custodial fathers in Brooklyn with one or more children under 18

How to Access this Program or Service

Contact the program director at 917-966-4620

 

This program is associated with...

A Vibrant Brownsville

Brownsville, Brooklyn is a vibrant, evolving, and unique neighborhood; and SCO is proud of our partnership with the community for over three decades.  Read More

Related News

“Stronger Dads, Brighter Futures” Event Provides Resources and Support for Fathers

June 13, 2023

SCO Fathers’ Program Named Fatherhood Program of the Year

July 18, 2018

Ryan’s Story

Empowerment through mentorship

Read Ryan’s Story

Manuel’s Story

"SCO's Flushing Family Residence gave us a second chance at life."

Read Manuel’s Story

Children in our NYC shelters had a

96%

attendance rate at NYC DOE schools

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