22 Dads, 17 Weeks, Countless Lessons: The District Dads Graduation

We recently had the honor of celebrating 23 incredible fathers and father figures who proudly graduated from our District Dads program. Over the past 17 weeks, these men have committed to their personal growth, and the impact of their hard work will resonate within their families and communities for years to come.

The District Dads program, which was made possible through our partnership with the Capital Youth Empowerment Program (CYEP) and Community Wellness Ventures, is about much more than just learning parenting skills. It’s a transformative journey that empowers fathers to become stronger, more engaged, and emotionally present figures in their children’s lives.

“The dedication these fathers showed to their families and themselves was evident in every aspect of the program. They didn’t just attend weekly sessions—they embraced every lesson, every challenge, and every opportunity to learn. Whether it was improving communication with their co-parents, strengthening their emotional wellness, or learning how to support their children better, these men were all in,” says Matt Miller, who runs the District Dads program at Martha’s Table.

One of the most powerful aspects of the District Dads program is the sense of community that these men built together. They leaned on one another, shared their personal stories, and formed lasting bonds. This support system became just as important as the content they were learning, providing a network of encouragement and understanding that they could carry with them after the program ended.

What makes this cohort so special is their unwavering commitment to personal growth. Completing a 3.5-month program requires time, effort, and a willingness to embrace change. These dads showed up every week and demonstrated that being a great father isn’t just about providing—it’s about being present, emotionally available, and willing to put in the work to be the best version of themselves for their families.

We are so proud of these fathers. Their commitment to parenting, building stronger co-parenting relationships, and investing in their emotional well-being speaks volumes about their character and their love for their families. They have taken an important step toward a future where they can be the role models and pillars their children need, and that’s something worth celebrating.

If you’re interested in learning more about the District Dads program or how you can get involved, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to provide more information and answer any questions you might have.

You can also share this program with any father figures in your life who could benefit from the support and resources District Dads offers.

Join District Dads Today!