Dads Group

Support group just for Dads

SUPPORT ESPECIALLY FOR DADS

Dads Group

Starting Fall of 2024, Family Voices of MN is proud to be the host organization of a long-standing support group for dads.

Learn a little about the history of the Twin Cities Dads group. Check out their current meeting schedule. And let us know if you are interested in joining this group of supportive dads who are raising children with disabilities.

History of the Dads Group

In 2006, Twin Cities Dads was founded to meet the unique needs of fathers parenting children with special needs. The initiative began with Don Nikkola, MSW, who was deeply impacted by the isolation and struggle experienced by one father as he processed his child’s diagnosis. Recognizing that this father was not alone in his challenges, Don sought to address a significant gap in peer support for men.

To bring this vision to life, Don partnered with Steve Roecklein, LCSW, who shared his commitment to supporting fathers and had extensive experience in early childhood development. Together, they established Twin Cities Dads, creating a supportive community where fathers could connect, share their experiences, and learn from each other.

Back in 2021 Don and Steve sat down with Communities Engaging Autism and recorded a podcast talking about their group. Listen to the episode HERE.

Over the years, a small, dedicated group of fathers has come together within Twin Cities Dads, forming a tight-knit network of support. These fathers have not only benefited from the group’s resources but have also contributed to its strength and growth by offering each other ongoing encouragement and understanding. Through their collective experiences and support, this group has fostered a lasting sense of camaraderie and solidarity, making a profound difference in each other’s lives and in the wider community.

JOIN OUR GROUP

Current Meetings

The Dads group meets virtually over Zoom on the second Monday of each month. This group is now facilitated by experienced, trained dads who are also group members. The group is open-forum. There is no set agenda. The group is flexible; discussion evolves based upon the interests and needs of the group members. “What do you want to talk about today?”

Current members are receiving monthly emails with the link to join. If you are a Dads Group member and are not getting these emails please reach out to us at dads@familyvoicesmn.org or 612-440-1609.

How to Join

We invite MN dads who are raising children with disabilities to reach out to learn more about our group. Fill out this form: https://forms.gle/JUnjowYwRZHUEerU8 and one of our parent support navigators will reach out to you. You can also reach out by phone 612-440-1609 or email dads@familyvoicesmn.org.