Local nonprofit offers 'The Dad Playbook' program for young fathers

BENTON HARBOR, Mich. -- A program from the nonprofit, Present Pillars, is helping young men become strong, supportive fathers, whether they're currently raising kids or just preparing.

"The Dad Playbook" is a program initiated by national fatherhood initiative, aimed at supporting young fathers across Michigan.

"Whether you're already a dad or aspiring, this program is for you. I believe this is something that's very beneficial. I believe it would have been beneficial for me if I had this program along the time, I myself as a dad, I've got two boys, we didn't have a program like this going on," Present Pillars Community Health Worker Izayah Fisher said.

The course is taught weekly, and the sessions are focused on mental, physical and financial wellness. The topics range from managing stress and improving relationships, to budgeting, job readiness, and co-parenting.

Fisher says this program is a great positive environment for men trying to become the best version of themselves.

"If you take away the word program, and we just think about fellowship, and what it is that we're doing here, we're fostering community. There's nothing more powerful than that. So, to have a place to come to where men are able to foster community in a healthy way is impactful. You see it already every day. There are some guys in this program that I've come to call a friend, or guys that I knew known since childhood, and we've fostered a new type of relationship just because of this program, " Fisher said.

Classes meet weekly on Mondays at 4 p.m., with open enrollment running through July 14. Fisher says it’s free to join and all you have to do is stop by their office.