Online Parental Training Academy for Black Fathers
Classes Scheduled to Start in the Fall 2019
Welcome to our online Black Fathers Academy. This part of our Academy is new and starts in the Fall of 2019. Black fathers can access live and or prerecorded parenting classes and presentations from their home or anywhere there is an internet connection. This means that nearly all of our black fathers training programs will be available online,in the Fall of 2019. All lesson material will be accessible online to participants,there will be live training material instructors, certified by us, facilitating the training models. We will also use live video conferencing,and other means to deliver our lessons plans, via online access, to black fathers around the country and around the world. This is the first of its kind for Black fathers,having culturally competent fatherhood training online.
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ABOUT THE ACADEMY
The mission of the Academy of African American Fathers is deeply rooted in empowering fathers through a transformative journey. The core focus is on introducing novel skills, progressive thoughts, and expansive possibilities to participants, fostering a significant positive change not only in their individual lives but also in their overall lifestyle choices.
1. Empowerment Through Skills: The academy recognizes the transformative power of skills. By equipping fathers with new and relevant skills, it aims to enhance their capabilities and provide practical tools that can be applied in various aspects of life. These skills go beyond the immediate challenges, empowering fathers to navigate complex situations and contribute meaningfully to their families and communities.
2. Transformative Thoughts:A crucial aspect of the academy's approach is the introduction of transformative thoughts. This involves reshaping perspectives, challenging limiting beliefs, and encouraging fathers to envision new possibilities for themselves. By fostering a mindset open to growth and positive change, participants can break free from barriers that may have hindered their progress in the past.
3. Possibilities for Change:Central to the academy's mission is instilling the belief that change is not only possible but essential. By showcasing a spectrum of possibilities, fathers are encouraged to explore new avenues, set ambitious goals, and embrace the potential for a brighter future. This shift in mindset lays the foundation for a more optimistic and proactive approach to life.
4. Holistic Life Transformation:The academy recognizes that true change extends beyond individual behaviors to encompass lifestyle choices. It promotes a holistic approach, addressing various facets of life, including personal development, family dynamics, and community engagement. This comprehensive transformation ensures that the impact is enduring and enriches every aspect of a participant's life.
5. Community Impact:The ripple effect of individual transformation extends to the broader community. As fathers undergo positive changes, they become role models, inspiring others within their communities. This communal impact creates a positive feedback loop, contributing to the overall well-being and resilience of the African American community.
In essence, the Academy of African American Fathers is a catalyst for personal growth, encouraging fathers to embrace new skills, embrace transformative thoughts, and explore possibilities for positive change. By fostering holistic life transformation, the academy not only uplifts individual participants but also contributes to the collective strength and vitality of the communities it serves.
MISSION OF THE ACADEMY
Our mission aligns with the shared goals of fatherhood programs and initiatives across the country, reflecting a collective commitment to positive change within the Black fatherhood community. The focus on transforming negative consequences underscores a dedication to enhancing the capabilities of Black fathers, empowering them to be responsible parents and meaningful father figures. This mission is not only about individual upliftment but also about contributing to the broader narrative of positive fatherhood within the African American community.
1. Addressing Negative Consequences:The recognition of negative consequences faced by Black fathers signifies an awareness of the challenges and obstacles that may hinder their effectiveness in parenting roles. By acknowledging these issues, your mission takes a proactive stance in addressing and mitigating the factors that contribute to adverse outcomes.
2. Empowering Responsible Parenting:The emphasis on empowering Black fathers to be responsible parents signifies a commitment to nurturing the essential skills and qualities needed for effective parenting. This empowerment extends beyond addressing immediate challenges, aiming to cultivate a sense of responsibility that positively influences parenting practices and family dynamics.
3. Fostering Meaningful Fatherhood:The mission extends beyond mere responsibility to emphasize the importance of being a meaningful father figure. This involves encouraging active engagement, emotional connection, and positive role modeling. By fostering meaningful fatherhood, the mission recognizes the profound impact fathers can have on the well-being and development of their children.
4. Shared Objectives with National Initiatives:Acknowledging the similarity of your mission to that of fatherhood programs nationwide highlights a collective effort within the broader community of practitioners. This shared commitment reflects a unified approach to addressing common challenges faced by Black fathers and contributes to the exchange of best practices and strategies.
5. Collaborative Impact:By aligning your mission with similar initiatives, there is an opportunity for collaborative impact. The exchange of knowledge, resources, and successful strategies can amplify the effectiveness of fatherhood programs, creating a network of support that transcends individual programs and reaches a wider audience.
In essence, your mission is a testament to the dedication to positive change within the Black fatherhood community. By focusing on transforming negative consequences, empowering responsible parenting, and fostering meaningful fatherhood, your initiative contributes to the larger movement aimed at uplifting Black fathers and strengthening the foundation of families and communities.
THE ACADEMY IS UNIQUE AND WHY
Qur uniqueness lies in the cultural perspective and the emphasis on mindset within our approach to Black parenthood. This distinctive approach sets our program apart and adds a valuable dimension to the landscape of parenting initiatives. Here's an exploration of these unique aspects:
1. Cultural Perspective: The recognition and incorporation of a cultural perspective into our parenting program reflect a deep understanding of the significance of cultural identity. By tailoring our program to align with the cultural backgrounds of the participants, we create a space that resonates with black fathers experiences, values, and traditions. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and ensures that the program is culturally relevant, making it more effective and relatable.
2. Holistic Focus on Mindset: Distinguishing our program by focusing not only on the social aspects of parenting but also on the mindset of individuals is a significant strength. This holistic approach acknowledges that mindset plays a crucial role in shaping behavior and attitudes. By addressing the psychological aspects of blsck fatherhood, our program has the potential to bring about a profound and lasting positive change in how fathers of color perceive and approach their responsibilities.
3. Positive Change in Perspectives: The emphasis on mindset suggests a commitment to instilling a positive and transformative outlook. This approach goes beyond surface-level changes, delving into the core beliefs and attitudes that influence black parenting behaviors. By fostering a shift in perspectives, our program aims to create a sustainable impact, influencing not just the actions but also the underlying motivations of fathers of color.
4. Empowering Personal Responsibility: By focusing on mindset, our program empowers participants to take personal responsibility for their roles as fathers. This approach recognizes that true change often begins with a shift in one's internal narrative and self-perception. Encouraging fathers of color to embrace a proactive mindset contributes to their sense of agency and the belief that they can positively influence their children's lives.
5. Tailored and Personalized Approach: Our unique approach acknowledges the diversity within the Black community and understands that a one-size-fits-all model may not be effective. By considering the cultural nuances and individual mindsets, our program can offer a more tailored and personalized experience, ensuring that participants feel seen, heard, and understood.
In summary, our program's uniqueness stems from its cultural perspective and its dedication to transforming mindsets. This approach recognizes the importance of cultural identity and the profound impact of internal beliefs on black parenting behaviors. By integrating these elements, our program stands as a valuable and tailored resource for fathers of color, contributing to positive changes in their approach to responsibilities and black parenting models in general.
Lessons Learned
Programs Fail when they refuse to recognize that parenting is cultural!
COMPARE CULTURAL PROGRAMS TO NON-CULTURAL PROGRAMS
In culturally competent fatherhood programs, the positive aspects extend beyond shared experiences to create a sense of community and understanding among participants. The commonality of ethnic-related challenges cultivates an environment where individuals can empathize with each other's struggles, fostering a supportive network. The inclusion of trainers and instructors who have lived through similar parenting experiences further enhances the program's effectiveness by providing authentic guidance and mentorship.
Moreover, the unique problems addressed in cultural programs, which share a common theme and focus, allow for a more targeted approach to discussions. This focused exploration enables participants to delve deeply into shared challenges, facilitating a collaborative learning experience. The "each one teach one" philosophy thrives in this setting, as participants draw from their own experiences to provide valuable insights and solutions to common parenting issues.
On the flip side, non-cultural programs encounter challenges in building a cohesive community among participants. The diverse backgrounds and parenting styles inherent in such programs can lead to a lack of relatability and shared understanding. The absence of a unique focus beyond general parenting responsibilities makes it difficult for participants to establish a collective identity within the program.
Additionally, the varied pool of trainers in non-cultural programs contributes to a potential disconnect between facilitators and participants. The inability of trainers to relate directly to the diverse experiences and challenges faced by participants may result in a less effective learning environment. This limitation can impact the program's overall success in addressing the nuanced aspects of parenting.
One notable drawback of non-cultural programs is the potential oversight of the essence of family life from the participants' perspectives. The neglect of family legacy and the opportunity for individuals to reconnect with their roots can undermine the program's ability to instigate meaningful personal growth and change.
In summary, while culturally competent fatherhood programs excel in fostering a supportive community and addressing shared challenges, non-cultural programs may struggle to create a cohesive environment due to diverse backgrounds and a lack of focused themes. The effectiveness of these programs is closely tied to the relatability of participants and trainers, emphasizing the importance of a shared cultural context in the realm of fatherhood programs.
OPPORTUNITY
The Academy of African American Fathers stands as a beacon of opportunity for black fathers, offering a platform for growth, prosperity, and limitless possibilities. The benefits afforded by this institution are boundless, creating an environment where individuals can not only transform their own lives but contribute positively to their families and communities.
Embracing change is a central tenet of this academy, recognizing that individuals play a pivotal role in shaping communities. The resonant quote, "people make communities... communities don’t make people" (author unknown), encapsulates the philosophy that underscores the academy's mission. By empowering black fathers with the tools, knowledge, and support they need, the academy aims to foster positive change not only at the individual level but also within the broader scope of community dynamics.
The focus on the African American male is strategic, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by this demographic. As the primary figure in the family unit, the African American male often bears the brunt of negative consequences that can reverberate throughout the entire family and lifestyle. By addressing the specific needs and challenges of black fathers, the academy seeks to break cycles of adversity and uplift not only individuals but also the families and communities they are an integral part of.
In essence, the Academy of African American Fathers serves as a catalyst for transformative change, recognizing the profound impact that empowered and prosperous black fathers can have on their families and communities. The ripple effect of positive change initiated within individuals extends far beyond, contributing to the collective betterment of society at large.
Getting to our Legacy of Parenting
HISTORICALLY SPEAKING
The historical resilience of African American men in taking care of their children, even in the face of challenging circumstances dating back to slavery, is acknowledged. However, a complex interplay of systemic issues, compounded by factors such as government assistance reform, has contributed to a disconnection from traditional family values.
The Economic Factor: Many African American fathers seeking assistance often face economic hardships, marked by low income, unemployment, and a lack of employable skills. The rising cost of living presents a daunting challenge, hindering the pursuit of long-term goals such as homeownership or education. Economic factors such as criminal backgrounds, insufficient knowledge, and low wages further exacerbate the struggles faced by black families in general.
The Social Factor: The inability to provide for their children affects the attitude of fathers towards their responsibilities, often leading to a negative perception of their role. Pressures from mothers, children, and child support agencies can contribute to a sense of disconnection. Even supportive fathers may face legal consequences, as misinformation about African American men and their parental roles permeates legal systems and decisions.
The Legal Factor: The failure of legislative bodies to comprehend the nuanced issues faced by African American fathers is highlighted. Legal systems, driven by financial concerns and the best interest of the child, resort to punitive measures such as incarceration. The lack of comprehensive plans and viable alternatives results in attempts to force fathers into unfamiliar roles without addressing their individual or cultural needs in these circumstances.
The Consequences: The consequences of these systemic failures are evident in the disproportionate incarceration rates of African American men. Frustration with incomprehensible systems contributes to a cycle of violence, lack of motivation, self-esteem issues, domestic violence, gang warfare, police misconduct, family disconnect, substance abuse, health problems, and misinformation. The focus on financial aspects in legal proceedings often overlooks non-monetary efforts made by fathers to support their children. The social, emotional and moral supports from fathers are un-noticed or ignored.
In light of these challenges, a call for a new direction within the legal system is emphasized, urging a shift towards considerations that truly serve the best interests of children, families, and communities. African American men, facing multifaceted obstacles, need programs that address their real needs and provide an opportunity for genuine self-restoration. The current system, marked by its failure to understand and address cultural issues comprehensively, requires reevaluation and reform to foster positive change and the reconnection within African American families and communities of color.
The Trends:
**1. ** Incarceration Trends: A disturbing trend emerges as African American men, particularly fathers, find themselves disproportionately incarcerated, often for reasons unrelated to their dedication to supporting their children. The complex interplay of social, economic, and legal factors contributes to a cycle of imprisonment that hampers the ability of these men to actively participate in the lives of their families. This trend not only perpetuates the frustration felt by the individuals but also widens the gap in understanding between the legal system and the African American community.
**2. ** Violence and Lack of Motivation: The frustration resulting from systemic challenges translates into concerning trends of violence, both within the community and directed towards oneself. The lack of motivation stems from economic disparities, limited opportunities, and a sense of hopelessness. African American men, burdened by the weight of their circumstances, grapple with self-esteem issues and a diminished sense of confidence. These trends not only hinder personal growth but also contribute to the breakdown of family structures.
**3. ** Domestic Issues and Gang Warfare:The social fabric of African American communities is strained as systemic challenges manifest in domestic issues and gang warfare. The inability to fulfill traditional family roles due to economic hardships and legal complexities results in strained relationships. Gangs, in some instances, become alternative structures providing a distorted sense of belonging. This trend further perpetuates cycles of violence and disconnection within families and communities.
**4. ** Police Misconduct and Health Disparities: Instances of police misconduct contribute to a deep-seated mistrust of law enforcement within the African American community. The resulting tension and fear exacerbate existing challenges, hindering positive interactions. Health disparities, both physical and mental, emerge as prevalent issues, with limited access to resources for addressing these concerns. These trends compound the overall struggles faced by African American men, affecting not only their individual well-being but also their ability to support their families.
**5. ** Family Disconnect and Substance Abuse:The breakdown of family structures, exacerbated by economic challenges and legal entanglements, leads to a disconnection between parents and children. The consequences are far-reaching, with some fathers resorting to substance abuse as a coping mechanism. This trend not only perpetuates a cycle of dysfunction but also poses additional obstacles to reestablishing familial bonds and fostering a healthy, supportive environment.
**6. ** Misinformation and Lack of Program Support: The prevalence of misinformation about African American men and their parental roles permeates legal systems, further contributing to unjust consequences. Additionally, existing programs often fall short in addressing the nuanced needs of black men. A lack of targeted support compounds the challenges faced by African American fathers, hindering their ability to overcome systemic barriers and reintegrate into their families and communities successfully.
In addressing these trends, a comprehensive and empathetic approach is imperative. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of the challenges faced by African American fathers is the first step toward implementing reforms that foster positive trends, ultimately promoting the well-being of individuals, families, and communities.
THE CHANGE OF COURSE
Our perspective emphasizes a thoughtful and deliberate process towards positive change, highlighting the importance of acceptance, understanding,and truth. Let's break down the key points:
1. Acceptance: Change begins with acceptance, acknowledging the reality of a situation or issue. This step involves embracing the current circumstances, recognizing that change is needed.
2. Understanding: Acceptance is followed by understanding, delving into the complexities and nuances of the matter at hand. This involves gaining insight into the root causes, dynamics, and various facets of the issue.
3. Informed Perspective: Understanding is rooted in being properly informed. Access to accurate and comprehensive information is crucial for forming a well-rounded perspective. Seeking out facts and truths provides the foundation for informed decision-making.
4. Truth and Justice: Truth emerges when there is a commitment to being just and fair. Objectivity and impartiality contribute to a truthful assessment of the situation. Justice ensures that all relevant aspects are considered without bias.
5. Fairness: Fairness is a result of individuals who perceive things objectively and act accordingly. It involves treating all parties equitably, considering diverse perspectives, and making decisions that reflect a balanced and just approach.
6. Action: Fairness leads to action. Those who see things objectively are likely to take actions that align with the truth and promote positive change. This might involve advocating for reforms, addressing inequalities, or fostering a more equitable environment.
In summary, our philosophy emphasizes the importance of a conscientious and principled approach to change. By accepting, understanding, and seeking truth through just and fair practices, individuals can contribute to a more informed and equitable society, fostering positive transformation.
7. Vulnerability and Courage: To reach acceptance, individuals often need to embrace vulnerability. Acknowledging the need for change can be a vulnerable act, requiring the courage to confront uncomfortable truths. It's a recognition that, despite potential discomfort, transformation is necessary for growth.
8. Empathy and Compassion: Deeper understanding emerges from cultivating empathy and compassion. Stepping into the shoes of others and recognizing the unique challenges they face contributes to a more profound understanding of the human experience.
9. Wisdom and Knowledge: Informed perspective goes beyond facts; it involves the wisdom to discern the significance of those facts. Knowledge becomes a tool for enlightenment, guiding individuals toward a deeper comprehension of the complexities inherent in the issues at hand.
10. Authenticity and Integrity: Truth is not only about external realities but also an internal commitment to authenticity and integrity. It requires aligning one's values and actions, ensuring that personal beliefs and principles contribute to the pursuit of truth.
11. Equanimity and Balance: Justice is more than a legal concept; it involves equanimity and balance. Striving for fairness requires considering diverse viewpoints, avoiding prejudices, and maintaining a sense of equilibrium in decision-making.
12. Transformation and Growth: Fairness, when coupled with action, becomes a catalyst for transformation. It's not just about addressing the immediate issues but also fostering a continuous process of growth and improvement, both individually and collectively.
13. Cultural Competence: A deeper understanding of fairness involves cultural competence. Recognizing and respecting diverse perspectives and cultural contexts contributes to a more inclusive and equitable approach, ensuring that solutions resonate across varied backgrounds.
14. Social Responsibility: Taking action with fairness extends beyond personal concerns; it encompasses a sense of social responsibility. Individuals who act justly and fairly are motivated not only by personal gain but by a commitment to contributing positively to the broader community and society.
15. Ripple Effect: The actions of those who embody fairness create a ripple effect. Positive change initiated by individuals can inspire others to follow suit, fostering a collective movement towards a more just and equitable world.
In essence, the journey toward change, acceptance, and fairness involves embracing vulnerability, cultivating empathy, seeking wisdom, aligning with authenticity, maintaining balance, fostering growth, understanding cultural nuances, shouldering social responsibility, and recognizing the ripple effect of individual actions on the greater whole. It's a profound and interconnected process that transcends the surface to bring about meaningful transformation.
Our Mission
At Academy of African American Fathers Association, we are committed to providing comprehensive social services to individuals and families in need. Our mission is to empower our clients to achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.