Strengthening Father-Child Bonds: The Impact of Milwaukee's DAD Project

Fathers helping fathers: the health department program
Connecting and Supporting Milwaukee Dads

Rebuilding Lives and Strengthening Bonds: The Transformative Power of Milwaukee’s DAD Project

The Impact of Milwaukee’s DAD Project

Since its inception in 2016, the Direct Assistance to Dads (DAD) Project, offered by the City of Milwaukee Health Department, has been transforming the lives of fathers and their children. By providing weekly in-home visits and group sessions, this program supports fathers in engaging in early literacy activities, tracking their child’s development, and building a strong community of dads.

Inside the City of Milwaukee’s Office of African American Affairs on Fond du Lac Avenue, Harold Hudson II beams with pride. Holding his 10-month-old son, Harold Hudson III, in his lap, he marvels at the child’s new teeth. “He’s definitely worth the wait,” Hudson says, reflecting on the late arrival of fatherhood at 40.

Hudson’s path to fatherhood has been a journey of redemption and resilience. At 18, he was incarcerated for armed robbery, resulting in a ten-year prison sentence. This time behind bars saw him miss the birth of his daughter and endure the loss of his younger brother to gun violence. Determined to change his life, Hudson used his time in prison to focus on self-growth, engaging in programs to process his grief and trauma.

Upon release, Hudson discovered he was to be a father again. Seeking support, he found the DAD Project, a free, voluntary program for Milwaukee fathers with children under the age of three. Using the evidence-based Parents as Teachers model, the program offers parental support, identifies potential childhood delays, and enhances school readiness.

“I knew I might be operating as a single father and would have to do some things on my own,” Hudson said. “I took the initiative and I called.”

Mario Drain, a Fatherhood Involvement Specialist with the DAD Project, explains the program’s approach: “We are fathers helping fathers, so we have a unique perspective and understanding. It’s easier for us to relate to the population that we’re serving, and they’re more receptive to us.” Drain and his colleagues build strong relationships with the fathers, crafting personalized care plans filled with professional and personal goals for both the father and the child.

The DAD Project’s home visits involve casual conversations and structured activities to track a child’s development. They also delve into the fathers’ mental health, upbringing, and relationships with their own parents. “How we were raised, and things that affected us when we were coming up, have a direct impact on how we parent our children,” Drain said.

For Hudson, his father serves as a benchmark for what it means to be a good dad. “He was present on weekends and vacations. He was there in my life. I don’t want to give Harold III any less. That’s what keeps me going,” Hudson said.

Drain, who has five children of his own, uses his parenting experiences to guide others. When asked what makes a good dad, Drain said, “A good dad has patience, is always willing to learn new things, and try different things with parenting. A good dad shows up every day, even when they don’t want to.”

The program’s impact is evident. Since 2016, the DAD Project has supported 180 Milwaukee fathers, with 100% of participants in the last year reporting engagement in early literacy activities with their kids. This engagement has led to stronger attachment and increased fatherhood involvement.

Milwaukee County Healthy Start Fatherhood Services

Beyond strengthening parent-child bonds, the DAD Project connects fathers to community resources such as job opportunities and healthcare. Group sessions offer a space for fathers to share ideas, advice, and experiences. “We talk. We share our ideas on fatherhood, our likes, our dislikes. We get advice from other fathers. Sometimes we get grandfathers, older generations of dads, who share information and tips,” Drain said.

For Hudson, the support from the DAD Project has been invaluable. “I like the transparency of it. I’m honest about my situation. I’m willing to humble myself for any help that can be provided,” he said. “The guys in the support groups come from different backgrounds. It’s nice to share my experiences on navigating probation and parole. Fathers don’t have enough men they can talk to or trust with their issues, but I’m stronger now. I know if you don’t ask for help, you’ll never get it.”

The DAD Project is more than a support program; it’s a lifeline for fathers striving to be the best versions of themselves. By fostering strong father-child relationships, the DAD Project is building a healthier, more connected community in Milwaukee.

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