This is part two of our blog series focusing on families sheltering in vehicles throughout San Francisco. This post highlights the outreach and surveying Compass is currently conducting. Additional posts will cover Compass’ advocacy and support of vehicularly housed families and amplify their voices.    Figure 1  Yessica Hernandez Grijalva knocks on an RV door, to survey the family’s needs and let them know about services that are available to them.  Yessica Hernandez Grijalva , a Bilingual Policy Associate at Compass Family Services, called out to RV residents while knocking on the doors of over 50 Recreational Vehicles (RVs):  “Hola, mi nombre es Yessica y soy de Compass Family Services.  Hello, my name is Yessica and I am from Compass Family Services.  We are surveying families!”    In one RV, a Portuguese-speaking father asked questions about the outreach materials taped on doors earlier that day. He shared his fears about how the changing rules would affect his family and was eager to learn more about Compass’ services.    Up the street, a mother, father, and toddler excitedly greeted Yessica. She had met with them previously and told them about how families can access services at Compass  or other access points . The family reported that they had come to Compass, signed up for housing, and had even participated in housing workshops.   Compass’ outreach to families living in vehicles was originally planned to ensure that undercounted families would be included in the January 2026 Point in Time Count (PIT). Similar efforts before the 2024 PIT Count helped document the 97.6% increase in homeless families since 2022 .    The recent changes in large vehicle parking laws shifted the focus of many of Yessica’s conversations with RV residents.  Families are eager learn more about the new parking laws, permitting, and how they can engage in advocacy at community meetings. Compass helps with weekly meetings that support RV residents, in partnership with the End Poverty Tows Coalition .   Outreach and surveying of families will be conducted over coming weeks. Compass will also conduct a focus group to learn additional information about the prevention, care and support families living in vehicles need.  A mother of two elementary aged children shared information with Yessica about her family’s dreams while sitting on the steps of their RV. Their excited puppy eagerly played in the grass nearby. The children ran, danced and played in the grass.  Compass’ outreach seeks to ensure that families understand their rights, know how to access services and have more time to play on a beautiful day.

At Compass Family Services, we aim to support parents by helping them heal, connect, and grow alongside their families. Central to this mission is Triple P, or the Positive Parenting Program, a 12-week evidence-based course designed to equip parents with the skills and confidence to help families raise healthy, resilient children.     What is Triple P?     Developed in Australia more than 30 years ago to assist highest-risk families, Triple P is now implemented in over 25 countries and is one of the most rigorously evaluated parenting programs in the world. At Compass, we tailor the program to support families facing housing instability, generational trauma, involvement with Child Protective Services, and mental health or substance use issues to help create stronger, more connected family systems.     Learning Through Connection     The program begins with a pre-course evaluation that invites parents to reflect on their emotional well-being, their relationships with their children, and their own upbringing. The program is then divided into two parts.  The first five weeks focus on understanding child behavior, developmental stages, responding to defiance, and establishing routines.   The second half encourages deeper reflection on personal parenting patterns, exploring questions such as: How were you parented? What messages did you internalize? How do these patterns influence your parenting today?    Francisco Ferrer, our lead facilitator, emphasizes building parenting skills to nurture healthy family relationships. He makes Triple P sessions interactive by including a range of exercises like role-playing, group discussions, and videos. To further support this learning process, Francisco prioritizes creating a collaborative and engaging environment and deliberately avoids a traditional lecture format to "help parents discover what works best for their families."    This kind of supportive, hands-on environment is especially important for parents who have experienced trauma. Many participants face significant challenges such as unemployment, housing insecurity, or involvement with family court. However, regardless of how they arrive, all parents are welcomed into the space with a hot meal and open conversation, a ritual that Francisco emphasizes is essential to building trust within the program: “That meal matters,” he explains. “It shows parents they are cared for... and they appreciate this structure in their day.”    Celebrating Success   The program concludes with a graduation ceremony where certificates are awarded, reflections are shared, and small gifts such as toys or gift cards are given. Francisco reflects, “This is my favorite part. For some parents, it is the first time they have ever graduated from anything. It gives them proof that they committed to something and succeeded.”

This is the first of a series of blogs focusing on families sheltering in vehicles throughout San Francisco. This post outlines the hardships families currently navigate. Additional posts will cover Compass’ advocacy work, some of the latest efforts to help vehicularly housed residents move indoors and amplify the voices of families living in vehicles.     My name is Yessica Hernandez, and I am a bilingual policy associate with Compass Family Services. I am also a passionate advocate for families sheltering in RVs. I guide families through the maze of bureaucracy and witness the constant fear in their eyes—the anxiety, sadness, and frustration. Watching them try to navigate a system that seems designed to make survival harder is heartbreaking. I am there to support them through the process, standing by their side as they try to clear tickets, pay fees, and fight to get their homes back.  San Francisco has one of the most expensive costs of living in the world. Many working families have been forced out of traditional housing and into RVs, not by choice, but as a last resort to avoid street homelessness. These families, often with young children, are trying to survive under incredibly difficult circumstances, namely the constant threat of having their shelter towed. Towing RVs leads to the loss of shelter and the destruction of personal belongings, children's items, and vital documents needed to access services, enroll in school, or apply for housing. Parents are scared to leave their homes unattended because they risk coming back to find everything gone. The stress and trauma of RV living is insurmountable, and humane housing solutions are the best way forward.  The process of retrieving a towed RV and paying tickets is overwhelming, especially when families have limited resources. If families do not have the money to pay, they must navigate a web of organizations and services, each with different requirements. For families with limited time, resources, or transportation, this process can stretch over several days, creating unnecessary delays and adding to their anxiety. Many families don’t have the luxury of time. They still need to work, care for children, and try to maintain a semblance of stability, all while struggling to regain access to their homes.   The city’s current housing access system, known as Coordinated Entry (CE), often struggles to accurately account for the needs of RV-dwelling families. Assessments used to determine housing priority often produce in low scores for these families, even when they face urgent and unsafe conditions. As a result, they are frequently passed over for necessary housing opportunities. Additionally, RV families struggle with basic survival needs. There are few, if any, accessible places to legally dump greywater or trash, and doing so often means driving hours away, costing families time, fuel, and money. Access to clean water for drinking, cooking, and bathing is limited, and weekly street cleaning forces families to relocate at early hours.  Many families also face harassment from housed neighbors who don’t want them there. RV living is often viewed negatively by the broader community, with some considering it unsightly and disruptive to the city’s aesthetic. While it is understandable that the presence of RVs can be uncomfortable for others, this judgment can dehumanize families who are simply trying to survive. Displacing these families only worsens their situation, pushing them further into crisis. San Francisco’s focus must be finding humane solutions.  Despite these challenges, many families are doing everything they can to stay afloat.  These are not families choosing to live off the grid—they are hardworking, contributing members of the community, but they cannot afford rent in one of the most expensive housing markets in the country.  The psychological toll on families is immense. The fear of losing their home every day, combined with public harassment, judgment, and a lack of safe spaces, creates deep anxiety and feelings of worthlessness. Children may experience emotional trauma, disrupted education, and social isolation. Parents often carry guilt and shame, even when they are working multiple jobs to try and survive. The loss of routine, community, and dignity leaves lasting emotional scars.  At the end of the day, I return   home, and you likely do too. These families don't have that option. They are not asking for special treatment; they want to be seen, supported, and provided with real solutions. Living in an RV is not a long-term answer; it is a stopgap in a system that fails them. By working with the city to better coordinate between departments, create more compassionate policy decisions, and tailor services to the realities of families sheltering in RVs, we aim to prevent further trauma and help these families transition into safe, stable housing.

On Friday afternoon, the Compass Children’s Center community came together to celebrate a major milestone—graduation day for the Class of 2025! Families, teachers, and friends filled the space with smiles, applause, and more than a few happy tears as our preschoolers marked the end of a wonderful year and the beginning of their next big adventure: kindergarten.  Program Director Heidi Lamar  welcomed families and shared reflections on the year highlighting the strength, growth, and community that each child brings to Compass Children’s Center. Her words were followed by the presentation of diplomas, a moment made extra special by Preschool Site Supervisor Wei Ying Jiang , who joined Heidi in congratulating each and presenting them a personalized teddy bear.  After the ceremony, families gathered for a lively reception featuring delicious food provided by Mariposas  and an irresistible spread of cookies and doughnuts from STK Steakhouse .  Check out these moments from the special day! We are so grateful to our generous event sponsors:   BlackRock  (Event Venue Sponsor) Salesforce  (Backpack Sponsor) Mariposas  (Catering Sponsor) STK Steakhouse  (Dessert Sponsor) Your support helped make this day one to remember.  Congratulations to our graduates, and thank you to the families, teachers, and supporters who made this celebration possible. We can't wait to see what the Class of 2025 does next!

As a development intern for Compass Family Services, I have gotten the opportunity to immerse myself in the world of basic income this summer through Compass’ Guaranteed Basic Income pilot ' It All Adds Up '. I came in with a vague understanding of basic income and randomized control trials, and have since gained a deeper understanding of how agencies like Compass can play a crucial role in contributing to research, particularly in guaranteed basic income. During my time with Compass, I have gotten the chance to work on a process evaluation for the pilot and attend the Basic Income Guaranteed (BIG) conference in San Francisco. I have had an incredibly rewarding learning experience, and the following are my key insights.  Basic income is a social welfare proposal that advocates for regular, no-strings-attached cash payments to members of a community. Over the past century, the idea has gone through three distinct waves of support, with the third and most significant resurgence starting in the early 2010s largely as a response to the 2008 financial crisis. With this renewed interest in basic income, attending the 22nd Annual BIG Conference this July was an especially exciting opportunity for me. The two-day conference, called "Meeting the Moment," sparked discussions on the history, current state, and future trajectory of basic income. It illustrated how basic income has evolved from a fringe idea into a powerful social movement, undergoing a significant transformation along the way. The BIG Conference 2024 Although universal basic income (UBI) gained widespread attention during Andrew Yang's 2020 Democratic presidential campaign, the pandemic marked a critical shift in the national conversation about basic income. UBI, a policy proposal that advocates for regular, unconditional payments to all individuals regardless of their financial situation, was initially designed to address unemployment gaps and provide a safety net for everyone. However, the focus has since shifted to Guaranteed Basic Income (GBI), a more targeted form of financial support designed to address the structural inequalities exacerbated by the pandemic. Many speakers at the conference highlighted GBI's deep roots in economic justice. With mentions of figures like Johnnie Tillmon, an African-American welfare rights activist, they emphasized the importance of centering marginalized communities in economic movements as early as the mid-20th century. These discussions on economic and racial justice are especially relevant to Compass' mission, as 93% of the families we served in 2023-2024 identified as families of color. Our work addresses the intersection of poverty and racial inequality, reflecting the needs of the communities we support. As Compass launches its own GBI pilot, we join a growing national movement exploring diverse approaches to basic income. Participants and speakers from across the country shared insights from their own GBI pilots, each with their own target populations, time frames, and financial structures. From providing financial stability for artists to assisting youth aging out of foster care, these pilots demonstrated the various ways GBI can make a tangible impact and provided hope for all the basic income advocates in the room.  The BIG Conference 2021 Although UBI pilots are less common in the United States compared to GBI initiatives, their impact and innovative approaches were prominently featured at the conference, particularly in international settings. One such UBI pilot, presented at the conference, was conducted in India and Bangladesh. It introduced a cash-plus model where direct cash payments provide not only immediate relief but also act as a catalyst for deeper community transformation. This pilot targeted informal settlements, showing how this approach empowers community members, thereby building trust and fostering empowerment. This example underscores the qualitative impacts that basic income can have, extending far beyond mere financial relief. It illustrates how such initiatives can inspire collective action and self-organization within communities, showing UBI's potential to drive not just economic change but social solidarity. The Economic Security Project 2023 While pilots are crucial for building momentum, looking ahead to the future of basic income, the movement also requires effective narrative building to overcome misconceptions and influence policy. The conference emphasized this by highlighting the Economic Security Project’s storytelling guide , which aims to ensure that the results of pilots influence policy and drive tangible change. These narratives are crucial in countering deeply held cultural beliefs and emerging anti-GBI movements  that threaten progress. By reshaping perceptions, they can shift the view that financial insecurity is a personal failure and instead highlight the structural barriers embedded in our economy and laws. My time at Compass has offered a comprehensive view into the multifaceted nature of the basic income movement. From the historical evolution of basic income concepts to the strategic implementation of diverse GBI pilots across the United States, each element has revealed the potential of these programs to address systemic inequalities. Compass’ own initiative, 'It All Adds Up', is a testament to how tailored, community-centric approaches can enhance the lives of participants, reflecting the unique challenges and strengths of each family. As we look to the future, it’s clear that continuing to refine the narratives around basic income and learn from each pilot’s outcomes will be crucial in driving the broader acceptance and success of basic income initiatives. This experience has not only enriched my understanding, but has also solidified my commitment to advocating for economic systems that support and uplift every individual.

At Compass Family Services, we believe that listening to the families we serve is essential to providing responsive, effective, and equitable services. Last month, we shared how our Family Advisory Committee  (FAC) has been driving change across Compass—offering firsthand recommendations that led to improvements in communication, service navigation, and housing access.  That same commitment to family voice continues through our annual client survey . Every year, we invite all Compass clients to share their experiences and ideas for improvement—and then we take action.  In February 2025 , 366 clients responded to our agency-wide satisfaction survey, sharing valuable feedback that is now guiding updates across our programs.  What We Heard   Families shared many strengths:  78%  are highly likely to recommend Compass to friends or family.  91%  agree that Compass respects their cultural background and identity.  87%  say they feel welcome at Compass.  Families also pointed out areas for improvement—many of which echo what we’ve heard through the Family Advisory Committee:  Faster response times and clearer communication from staff  More detailed information about program expectations  Additional housing support, including for families who don’t qualify for housing programs through the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing  More transparency around food distribution (such as expiration dates)  How We’re Responding: Compass Commitments   Based on what families shared, we’re taking the following steps:  Food Distribution:  We will include Food Bank expiration guidelines in every food bag, and we’re working to offer more healthy options and larger quantities for big families.  Communication:  New phone lines will make it easier for families to text and call staff.  Housing Support:  We’ve expanded housing workshops and now offer 1:1 support for all  Compass families—even those not enrolled in a housing program.  Program Clarity:  We’re developing written materials to explain what families can expect when they participate in Compass programs, from start to finish.  Workforce Development Support: Compass is offering a new workforce development series through our C-Work program. These improvements directly reflect what families told us—and build on the momentum started by the FAC.  Coordinated Entry: Making a Complex System More Navigable   Families also shared feedback about Coordinated Entry , San Francisco’s system for connecting families with housing and shelter. In response, our Central City Access Point (CCAP)  team is working with the city to make key improvements:  We’re working with the city to develop  clear, written explanations  about how Coordinated Entry works and how to stay active on housing waitlists.  We’re asking the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing to notify us in advance of any changes, so we can keep families informed.  We’ll train other community organizations to better support families through the Coordinated Entry process.  We’ll  review and confirm all family information  before it’s added to the One System database to prevent errors.  These efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to reducing confusion and increasing transparency for the families navigating this often complex system.  A Culture of Listening   From our Family Advisory Committee to our annual client survey, one thing is clear: families are leading the way.  We’re deeply grateful to every parent and caregiver who shared their voice through this year’s survey. Your feedback is already shaping stronger, more responsive services—and helping Compass grow into an organization that listens deeply and acts boldly.  Stay tuned as we continue to implement changes and report back on our progress. This is just one more step in building a more family-centered Compass, together.

When we launched the Family Advisory Committee in 2024, our goal was simple but ambitious: to bring the voices of our clients into the heart of our decision-making. The Family Advisory Committee is now in full swing of its second cohort. Committee members are meeting with community leaders and leaders at Compass to share their feedback and make their voices heard on the issues that affect them – and we’re witnessing the impacts of both cohorts across the organization.   The Power of the First Cohort   The first FAC cohort, which wrapped up in June 2024, brought vital insights from families who had navigated Compass’ services. Their feedback turned into action—and change.  Their recommendations led directly to:  Improved front-door experience : We added indoor waiting areas, installed weather canopies outside, and created clear protocols for greeting families and directing them efficiently.   Better service navigation : We’re piloting a new pocket-sized brochure that outlines Compass programs, and training all Compass staff to better explain service eligibility and referrals.   More transparent communication : We launched clearer communication practices between case managers and families—including backup contacts if a staff member is away—and implemented consistent feedback loops so clients know their voices are being heard.   Support around housing access : FAC input sparked the Homelessness and Supportive Housing Department to hire a consultant to look into creating new written guides and virtual options for Coordinated Entry assessments, helping families better understand and engage with the housing process.   These aren’t just checkboxes—we’re seeing real results in client satisfaction and smoother service delivery. And this work is ongoing.    An FAC alum shared that she was experiencing shorter wait times, and the distribution of goods like food and diapers has become more organized.  Another alum said, “I felt heard in respected in seeing the organization make some changes immediately.” She’s noticed less people waiting in line for resources at 37 Grove Street, and she has received more communications about housing resources.  What’s Ahead: The Second Cohort   The 2025 FAC cohort pose after speaking with members of the SF Board of Supervisors for Advocacy Day. The current FAC cohort, which wraps up in June 2025, is already zeroing in on key areas that matter deeply to families. Their draft recommendations include:  Clarity around case management expectations : Families want to better understand what they can expect from their case managers and how to best work together.   Promoting transparency : Requiring name tags for all staff would encourage transparency and help clients identify specific staff members.   Financial counseling for all : Families are asking for greater access to financial education and support—something we’re excited to explore expanding.   These ideas are in progress, and we’re already looking at ways to turn them into action. Stay tuned for a second part to our story, how we’re implementing new feedback and how families are responding across the organization!  A Culture of Listening   The Family Advisory Committee is a movement toward more equitable, responsive, and family-centered services. We’re grateful to the parents and caregivers who have generously shared their time, insights, and experiences. Their leadership is helping Compass become better every day.

It's city budget season, and Compass needs the community's help to advocate for families and ensure they're not left behind as the city plans for 2025 and beyond! Check out the events below for opportunities to share your voice: Our City Our Home Hearing April 24, 9:30 AM City Hall 416 Speak out for homeless families! Join us at the Our City Our Home Committee meeting to demand the city spend unspent Prop C funds that were budgeted specifically to support homeless families this fiscal year. Mother's Day Event May 8, 11 AM Steps of City Hall Join the Coalition on Homelessness at City Hall for a powerful Mother's Day action! Families will speak directly with supervisors to demand more affordable housing and share their stories. Lobbying Day for Homeless Families June 3, 12 PM City Hall Join us for a powerful day of action as families speak directly to City leaders about what they need. Together, we'll advocate for housing, shelter, and support services in the upcoming city budget to ensure homeless families are prioritized, not left behind. Human Rights Commission June 5, 5 PM City Hall 416 Join the Human Rights Commission to learn about solutions to family homelessness and advocate for the needs of homeless families in SF. Public Comment Day June 23, 9 AM City Hall Want the city budget to prioritize homeless families? Join Compass to demand full funding for the services families need - especially in a year when vital support is at risk. For more information, contact Megan Rohrer, Compass' Policy Director, at mrohrer@compass-sf.org !

NEW DISTRIBUTION LOCATION Please be aware that starting the week of Monday, February 17th, distribution of food, diapers, wipes, hygiene items, and facemasks will be relocated. These goods will no longer be available for pickup at 37 Grove Street. Mail and fresh produce will remain at 37 Grove Street. NEW LOCATION: 1240 Market Street Located around the corner from 37 Grove Street NEW DISTRIBUTION OPERATING HOURS Additionally, the new distribution center at 1240 Market Street will only be open for pick-ups during the following windows: Wednesday 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM & 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Thursday 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM & 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE NEW DISTRIBUTION CENTER Families can expect to line up at the door at 1240 Market Street. A staff member will ask you to fill out a slip containing your name and date of birth, as well as what goods you need. Staff will then verify your information and distribute goods. For access to other services, families will need to visit 37 Grove Street around the corner. For questions, contact the Compass Family Resource Center at CFRC@compass-sf.org . OTHER FAMILY RESOURCE CENTERS IN SAN FRANCISCO APA Family Support Services/API Family Resource Network Chinatown, New Immigrants Asian Women's Resource Center - Gum Moon Residents Hall Chinatown Bayview YMCA Family Resource Center Bayview-Hunters Point Edgewood Family Resource Center Bayview-Hunters Point El Centro Bayview Bayview, Latino families Excelsior Family Connections Excelsior FCC Visitacion Valley Visitacion Valley Glide Family Youth and Children's Center Citywide, Tenderloin, Treasure Isl. Good Samaritan Family Resource Center Mission Homeless Prenatal Program Homeless families Instituto Familiar de le Raza Chicano/Latino & Mission Collaboratives Mission Joy Lok Family Resource Center Chinatown Portolo Family Connections Portola Protrero Hill Family Support Center, Urban Services YMCA Portero Hill Richmond Asian Family Support Center Richmond, Sunset Safe Start Initiative Collaborative Children 0-6, exposed to violence South of Market Family Resource Center South of Market, Mission Bay Support for Families of Children with Disabilities Children with special needs Visitacion Valley Strong Families Collaborative Visitacion Valley Wah Mei (Irving Street) Sunset, Outer Parkside Wah Mei (Ortega Street) Sunset, Outer Parkside Western Addition Family Resource Center Western Addition Young Family Resource Center (Felton Institute) Young famili es

When we launched the Black Fatherhood Series at Compass Family Services, we aimed to create a space where Black fathers could gather, learn, and grow. This was more than a program; it was a powerful journey of vulnerability, connection, and growth. To be part of the inaugural group took courage from each participant, and I feel privileged to have witnessed the dedication, openness, and resilience displayed by these fathers. Our Black Fatherhood Series tackled five critical stressors faced by Black men: cultural stressors, health and wellness, family relationships, financial responsibilities, and the ever-present challenge of navigating race and racism. These stressors, often unspoken and underacknowledged, can profoundly affect Black fathers' ability to show up as they aspire to for their children, families, and communities. Through our sessions, we broke down these barriers together, creating a foundation for understanding, healing, and empowerment.   The Vulnerability of Being Seen and Heard One of the most moving aspects of the series was the vulnerability exhibited by the participants. Each father showed a commitment not only to being present but to being real with one another. The room became a safe space for honest conversations, shared challenges, and even moments of self-reflection. It’s not easy to open up, especially for men who carry the weight of cultural expectations and the responsibility of being strong for their families. Yet, these fathers embraced vulnerability, showing that strength also lies in connection and openness. They came together to learn, but they also came together to support one another, creating a sense of brotherhood and solidarity.   Addressing the Five Stressors for Black Men The sessions centered around five major stressors that are especially significant for Black men: Cultural Stressors : For many Black men, cultural expectations about masculinity and fatherhood create stress that is often unspoken. In this session, fathers reflected on how society views them and how to counter those narratives with self-empowerment and pride. Health and Wellness : Physical and mental health are pillars of fatherhood, yet too often, Black men experience barriers in accessing health resources. The fathers discussed practical strategies for managing stress, prioritizing their health, and seeking help when needed. They gained tools to break the stigma surrounding mental health, emphasizing that wellness is not only personal but a commitment to their families. Family Relationships : Healthy family relationships require effort, patience, and communication. In this session, we explored positive father qualities and effective communication within families. Fathers shared techniques for building stronger bonds with their children and fostering respectful relationships with partners or co-parents. Finances and Fatherhood : Financial stress can weigh heavily on fathers who want to provide stability and opportunities for their children. The session on finances empowered fathers with knowledge about saving, investing, and creating generational wealth, tools they can apply not just for today but to secure their families’ futures. Race and Racism : Navigating a society where racial biases persist is a stress that Black fathers know all too well. In our session on race, we confronted how systemic racism affects Black families and shared strategies for preparing their children for the realities they may face. Fathers discussed how to empower their children with pride in their heritage and resilience against adversity. These topics are vital because they address the unique experiences of Black fathers, promoting holistic growth and resilience. By sharing stories and learning together, the group made powerful strides toward building confidence and finding joy in fatherhood. Appreciation for Dr. Khalid White I extend my deepest gratitude to Dr. Khalid White, who served as the series facilitator. Dr. White’s ability to connect with each father, lead with empathy, and foster meaningful conversations created an environment where fathers felt heard, valued, and uplifted. His expertise, insight, and genuine care for Black fatherhood were invaluable to the series' success. Dr. White’s presence was a gift, and his commitment to supporting Black men in their journeys as fathers left a lasting impact.   The Importance of Programs Like the Black Fatherhood Series Statistics reveal the significant and often overlooked involvement of Black fathers in their children's lives. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Black fathers are more likely than other fathers to be actively involved in their children's lives in terms of feeding, bathing, and playing. These statistics highlight the dedication of Black fathers, countering stereotypes and reminding us of their vital role in their families.   Programs like the Black Fatherhood Series are essential in promoting the well-being of Black men. Black fathers face unique challenges that demand unique solutions, and this series provides them with tools, resources, and a supportive community to navigate those challenges. Our society often overlooks the needs of Black fathers, but by offering programs like this, we are taking steps to ensure they have the support they deserve.   Moving Forward with a Monthly Drop-In Group The energy and engagement from this inaugural group have been so inspiring that Compass Family Services will continue supporting Black fathers through a monthly drop-in group. This initiative will provide a space for Black fathers to reconnect, share, and continue their journey of growth and learning. I look forward to seeing the ongoing impact of these gatherings, as they strengthen the bonds of fatherhood and community.   A Commitment to Black Fathers To all the fathers who participated in the Black Fatherhood Series, thank you. Your commitment to growth and willingness to engage in meaningful conversations have laid a strong foundation for future fathers who will benefit from your journey. We are proud of each one of you, and we remain committed to supporting Black fathers in every way we can.   This series was the first, but it won’t be the last. Together, we are reshaping narratives, supporting fatherhood, and creating a legacy for Black families.