Written by: JR Robinson

“A father is neither an anchor to hold us back, nor a sail to take us there, but a guiding light whose love shows us the way.” This sentiment captures the heart of Fathers First, an organization dedicated to empowering fathers in Memphis to become nurturing, engaged role models and vital pillars of their families.

The Urgent Need for Fatherhood Programming in Memphis

Memphis faces a crisis of father absence. Nearly 40% of children in Memphis and Shelby County are born to unwed mothers, and more than half live in fatherless homes. Nationally, almost one in four children under 18 live without a resident father, a rate more than three times higher than the global average. The consequences are profound: children from father-absent homes are more likely to experience poverty, struggle academically, face emotional and behavioral challenges, and become involved in crime or teen pregnancy.

As Carol Jackson, executive director of Families Matter, notes, “A lot of the chaos we see in Memphis and Shelby County and elsewhere is the result of fathers not being involved in their children’s lives.” The breakdown of the family, often exacerbated by outdated public policies, has left many young men without a model for responsible fatherhood.

Fathers First: Cultivating Stronger Fathers, Families, and Futures

Fathers First Memphis is driven by a powerful mission: to cultivate nurturing and engaged fathers who will meaningfully enhance the well-being of their children and their families. The organization recognizes that when fathers are equipped with support, resources, and guidance, they become positive forces in their children’s lives.

Key Programs and Initiatives:

• Parenting Workshops: Fathers First offers practical education on communication, discipline, and emotional support, helping fathers develop healthy parenting skills.
• Mentorship Opportunities: By connecting fathers with experienced role models, the organization fosters a culture of mutual support and accountability.
• Personal and Professional Development: Fathers are provided with resources for job training, legal support, and co-parenting agreements, empowering them to overcome barriers and provide for their families.

In February 2025, Fathers First Memphis deepened its commitment by adopting 14 local schools, ensuring that fathers and father-like role models are present and engaged in students’ educational journeys. This partnership is designed to enhance student success, promote social-emotional well-being, and strengthen family-school connections.

“We truly believe that if we invest in fathers, and we build stronger fathers, we will build stronger families.”
— Jon Humphrey, Co-founder of Fathers First Memphis

The Impact: Real Stories, Real Change

Programs like Fathers First and AFIRM (A Father’s Involvement Really Matters) are already making a measurable difference. Hundreds of fathers in Memphis have participated in fatherhood workshops, signed co-parenting agreements, and found stable employment. These milestones translate into stronger family bonds, improved child outcomes, and safer, more vibrant communities.

Fathers report that these programs offer a “safe haven” where they can learn, grow, and support one another. The transformation is visible not only in the lives of the fathers but also in the well-being of their children and the broader community.

A Call to Action: How You Can Help

The work of Fathers First is vital, but it cannot succeed without community support. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Volunteer: Become a mentor, lead workshops, or help organize events at local schools.
• Partner: Local businesses, faith groups, and organizations can collaborate to expand resources and opportunities for fathers.
• Advocate: Raise awareness about the importance of father involvement and support policies that strengthen families.
• Donate: Financial contributions help sustain and grow these life-changing programs.

By standing with Fathers First, you are investing in the future of Memphis—one father, one family, one child at a time.

Wrap Up

Fathers are not just providers; they are guiding lights whose presence, love, and engagement shape the next generation. Now, more than ever, Memphis needs organizations like Fathers First to help fathers become the role models their children deserve. Together, we can build stronger families and a stronger city.