The Long Island Fatherhood Initiative (LIFI) is a comprehensive training course designed to help men improve their parenting skills and fathering knowledge. It is based on a program called 24/7 Dad®, developed by the National Fatherhood Initiative.

Father-focused, evidence-based, and designed for dads of all ages, the program has been used by thousands of organizations working with men of all races, ethnicities, and backgrounds.

LIFI focuses on five main tenets or areas of what makes you a good father. Throughout the 12 sessions, each class will touch on a number of these areas including self-awareness, fathering skills, caring for self, parenting skills, and relationship skills. Services include:

• Case management
• Skill-building in fathering/parenting
• Job readiness coaching and economic stability services
• Linkages to housing, mental health, and substance use services
• Domestic violence prevention education
• Logistical support (for example, transportation, work-related clothing, and tools).

For more information, visit www.greatfathers.org or contact Romarie McCue at 631-761-8518 or rmccue@theretreatinc.org.