In October 2015, Ohio was awarded nearly $10 million to help new and expectant low-income fathers ages 16 to 24 become more effective and nurturing parents, improve their long-term economic stability, and build strong, lasting relationships with their children. The grant, from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, funded the “New Beginnings for New Fathers” program in Franklin, Clark, Cuyahoga, Hamilton and Montgomery counties. Participating fathers received job training, parenting classes, and healthy marriage and relationship education.

The Ohio Commission on Fatherhood administered the grant and partnered with the following local programs to recruit and serve fathers:

• Action for Children – Franklin County

• Passages Connecting Fathers and Families – Cuyahoga County

• Talbert House – Hamilton County

• Urban Light Ministries – Clark and Montgomery Counties




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Upcoming Events

The Commission Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 10, 2022 from 10:00 am. – 12:00 p.m. 

(ODJFS) OCF Commission Meeting 
Date: November 10, 2022 at 10:00 am – 12 noon
Location: Vern Riffe Building (Riffe)
77 S. High St. 19th Floor, Conference Room 1948
Columbus, OH  43215

The meeting will be IN-PERSON. Please allow time to find parking and going through the security checks at the Vern Riffe Building. Please bring your photo Identification.


2022 Commission Meeting Dates:    Feb. 10, May 12, July 14, Sept. 8 and Nov. 10.

If you would like to attend a commission meeting or if you have any questions, please contact Terri Simons via e-mail at Terri.Simons@jfs.ohio.gov. 

If you need to speak to someone over the phone, please contact Executive Director Kimberly Dent at 614-752-0583. 

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