Fathers Matter Muskegon County

Calling All New and Expectant Fathers! The Man Cave Community Fatherhood Group is a welcoming space created for fathers to connect, learn, grow, and build meaningful relationships with other dads in the community. Whether you are preparing for fatherhood for the first time or already navigating the journey, this group is designed to provide encouragement, conversation, support, and practical tools for everyday life as a father.

Dates: May 14th – June 18th, 2026

Time: Every Thursday | 6:00 PM – 7:15 PM

Location: 7 E Center St, Muskegon Heights, MI 49444

register at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScUVAgyDMVWosD3H8JzVfyzG0ShlnGNKrwG-kIZZM4TAe-eFQ/viewform?pli=1

A 13-week, men-only class is open to any fathers in Muskegon County seeking to strengthen and improve their relationship with their children and families. Want to join this community class? Reach out to Timmy Smith today! (231) 215-4622, tsmith@ccwestmi.org or sign up online for the next Fathers Matter Class.

Black Men Heal is an empowering new support group dedicated to discussing mental health with certified professionals. This group offers a safe space for Black and Brown fathers and men to connect, share experiences, and find support. Take the first step towards mental wellness. Contact Lionel today at alexanderli@co.muskegon.mi.us or find Black Men Heal on Facebook to become part of this supportive network.

This 12 week program follows the 24/7 DADS curriculum created by the National Fatherhood Initiative and explores issues of fatherhood including: anger management, discipline, nurturing, and role-modeling. Read more about Arbor Circle classes.

To register, contact Kevin Schmidt; 616.980.7726, kschmidt@arborcircle.org.

Research about Dads & Infants

• Hold your baby against your skin right after birth to transfer good hormones.
• Infants can recognize Dad's voice at birth and show excitement as early as eight weeks old.
• Participate in bathing, feeding, and diapering your baby! Studies show the more you do, the better able your child will be able to handle stress when he or she is older.

Did you know?

• Pregnant women with father support have only a 22.2% rate of pregnancy loss, compared to 48.1% for women without father support
• Children without Dads are 4 times more likely to live in poverty
• Students living in father-absent homes are twice as likely to repeat a grade in school.