
SCO Partners with NYC Department of Correction and Department of Youth and Community Development to Pilot Rikers Island Fatherhood Initiative
July 29, 2024 / Independent Youth News
SCO Family of Services is proud to be part of a new pilot program, The Rikers Island Fatherhood Initiative, a partnership between SCO’s Young Adult Workforce Program (YAWP) and Fathers’ Program, the NYC Department of Correction (DOC), and the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD). This program is designed to help fathers who are currently incarcerated on Rikers Island reconnect with their children, strengthen family bonds, and develop essential parenting skills.
Over the course of the 12-week program, these emerging adults learned ways to navigate their individual paths to fatherhood. Twice a week, YAWP staff members conducted group workshops covering material from the fatherhood curriculum.
The program also included several exciting family events, like Paint & Sip, and a trip to the CMOM Museum, giving these young men an opportunity to bond with their children and the mothers.
On June 18th, the DOC held a Culminating Ceremony, celebrating the accomplishments of the inaugural class of seventeen graduates of the program. These proud dads received awards and got to spend quality time with their loved ones to enjoy the festivities, including food, music and photos.
Among the reasons graduates shared on why they wanted to participate in the Fatherhood Program:
“To obtain effective communication skills, so I can provide love and support while helping my child become the best person they can be.”
“To learn about parenting styles and develop a better relationship with the mother of my children.”
“As a first-time parent, there is always room for improvement, and I am willing to take any steps on becoming a better father, including changing my mindset and being more positive.”
We are so proud of these fathers for their tremendous growth and for taking the initiative to make a positive difference for themselves and their children in the years to come.