FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 14, 2005

FATHERHOOD INITIATIVE PROGRAM

In December, 2004, the Central Council of the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska began a new "Fatherhood Initiative Program" under Employment and Training. The program is designed to support Alaska Native and American Indian fathers who would like to enrich their approach to basic life skills and parenting support.

Our goal is to strengthen Native families by empowering fathers to become involved in the lives of their children. Through male involvement, family activities, home visitations and support groups, we will work to enhance the quality of support in their home.

Mr. Harold W. "Jay" Dick, Fatherhood Specialist, comes to Central Council from the Dad Outreach Program with Catholic Community Service, where he provided services to fathers for several years. He is coordinating the Fatherhood Initiative and will be carrying the voice of fathers to be heard and supported in our programs. This type of support will be refreshing for our Tribe, because we know that fathers are important and make all the difference with their involvement in the lives of their children.

Employment and Training is pleased to have Jay on our team to introduce a refreshing new start for fathers in Juneau and throughout our Southeast communities.

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For Information Contact:
CCTHITA, Employment and Training Division
Sharon Olsen, Director
Toll Free: (800) 344-1432
(907) 586-1432
(907) 463-7312 fax