We’re passionate about CRAFTING Better Men, Husbands, Fathers.
Fathers For Families
Fathers For Families is a subsidiary of Family Success Matters, an organisation previously known as Family Start Manukau.
Founding Vision and Collaborative Roots
Since its registration as a charitable entity in August 2021, Fathers For Families has consistently expanded its reach and impact. The organisation remains dedicated to its mission of strengthening fathers and their whanau through comprehensive and culturally relevant support services.
The Birth of Fathers For Families
Fathers For Families emerged as a subsidiary programme activated by Colleen Fakalogotoa and led by Dave Ringrose, with a specific focus on empowering fathers to take an active, positive role in their whānau. The 10-week programme was designed to address family violence intervention, promote healthy relationships, and foster safe, nurturing environments for children and families.
Evolution of Fathers For Families
Bringing Forward to 2025: The program has expanded to a 14-week intervention as a result of feedback from participants and community stakeholders, indicating the need for additional time and resources to fully address the complex issues faced by families. With the assistance of key cultural and spiritual frameworks, the initiative integrates:
Te Huringa o Te Ao: A framework focused on transformation, self-awareness, and cultural grounding.
Te Aorerekura: Aligning with the six key shifts to eliminate family violence and promote collaboration across agencies and communities.
The Biblical Principles: Fruit of the Spirit: Offering a spiritual dimension for personal growth and character development.
Additionally, the program operates under the nine principles of the Treaty of Waitangi to assist Fathers For Families in restoring mana and building a lasting legacy. These principles include:
Partnership: Working together with Maori communities to achieve common goals.
Participation: Ensuring Maori are actively involved in decision-making processes.
Protection: Safeguarding Maori culture, values and resources.
Equity: Promoting fairness and justice for all participants.
Options: Providing choices that respect Maori cultural preferences.
Active Protection: Taking proactive steps to support Maori well-being.
Redress: Addressing past injustices and working towards reconciliation.
Self-determination: Empowering Maori to control their own futures.
Manaakitanga: Fostering respect, generosity, and care within the community.
With the expansion to a 14-week intervention program, Fathers For Families is better equipped to support fathers in their journey towards creating safe, nurturing environments for their children. The program’s commitment to continuous improvement and community collaboration ensures that it will remain a vital resource for families for years to come.