The Father Center of New Jersey

03/13/2026

Big News! The first episodes of our new Forged 2 Prosper podcast air this week on the Central New Jersey Network at CNJN.org.

The program highlights the organization’s mission while providing a platform for community members, leaders, and families to discuss the importance of responsible fatherhood, parenting, and child development. Through conversations grounded in lived experience, the podcast shares insights for single fathers, single mothers, and families working to grow stronger together, while reinforcing the values and support systems that help children and communities thrive.

Central New Jersey Network - CNJN

03/12/2026

In February, we were proud to recognize Reggie Lawrence, a Program Manager in the Camden office, as Employee of the Month.

Reggie has been part of TFCNJ for two years, serving as a program manager for the Workforce Innovation and Business (WIB) program in Camden. In this role, he works closely with men who are unemployed, helping them gain the skills, certifications, and confidence needed to reenter the workforce. Through job readiness training and industry-recognized certifications—such as CPR, forklift operation, OSHA 10, and other workforce credentials—Reggie helps participants become more competitive and employable in today’s job market.

For Reggie, the most rewarding part of the work is seeing the transformation that takes place when a client secures employment. “It’s so rewarding when a client comes back to say they got a job and share that success, and how they are finally able to take care of their families,” he says.

Reggie has seen a growing determination among the men he serves to build a more stable future for themselves and their families. “We motivate them not just to get a job, but to keep a job, and to be a productive member of the community. We talk about that as a group all the time. I have a number of guys who are reentering society. We have conversations every day about how to become more productive to your family as a community.”

READ MORE:
https://thefathercenter.org/congratulations-reggie-lawrence/

03/10/2026

We are excited to announce that John Clay will be the featured performer for 21st Annual Platinum Dads Celebration, which will be held on June 5 at the Trenton Country Club.

A gifted multi-instrumentalist and vocalist rooted in Jazz, R&B, Gospel, and Classical music, John has performed and recorded with world-renowned artists including Madonna, Eric Clapton, Brian McKnight, David Foster, and Nile Rodgers. His soulful performance will bring energy and inspiration to this special evening celebrating fatherhood, leadership, and community impact.

Platinum Dads is The Father Center of New Jersey’s signature annual celebration honoring men who exemplify leadership, integrity, and commitment to their families and communities. This distinguished event recognizes fathers and father figures whose lives reflect the power of engaged, responsible, and present fatherhood.

Please join us at the Trenton Country Club on Friday, June 5, at 5 pm, as we celebrate impact, service, and legacy.

Purchase your tickets or sponsorships here: https://givebutter.com/c/TKbHqP

03/07/2026

03/04/2026

The Father Center of New Jersey was well represented at the February 20, 2026, Parent Leadership Recognition Celebration in Hamilton. Every year, Parents Inc. of New Jersey and community partners host the event to highlight contributions of parent leaders across New Jersey.

Randall E. Toby, Program Manager, had the opportunity to speak to several individuals who shared that there is a significant need for our services in their communities in Northern New Jersey. It was encouraging to hear firsthand how impactful our work would be in that region.

03/03/2026

The Father Center of New Jersey was among the many local nonprofit organizations to attend a community resource event hosted by Pathway 2 Wellness last month. During the event, Omar Aikens, Client Services Specialist, and Randall E. Toby, Program Manager, facilitated a presentation to men that highlighted a wide range of services available throughout the community.

“Omar and I had the opportunity to connect directly with the men who attended, sharing information about our programs and the support we provide. The men at the outpatient treatment center showed strong interest in our programs and services,” says Randall. “It was a meaningful time of engagement.”

02/20/2026

When Deshawn first walked through the doors of The Father Center of New Jersey, he felt lost and uncertain about his future. Like many, he faced personal challenges that had left him searching for direction and a sense of purpose. However, it was within these walls that he discovered not just support, but also hope.

Upon joining the Drive2Independence class, Deshawn was immediately struck by the welcoming atmosphere. The program, designed to equip individuals with the skills and confidence needed to obtain their driver’s license, provided him with practical knowledge.

Deshawn’s journey began with foundational lessons about driving, vehicle maintenance and the rules of the road. Initially, he felt overwhelmed, but the dedicated instructors and supportive peers helped him navigate his fears.

SEE FULL ARTICLE:
https://thefathercenter.org/drivers-license-gives-deshawn-courage/

02/19/2026

The Father Center of New Jersey is proud to announce a new partnership with Younity. Recently, our staff participated in an in-depth training at Younity that strengthened our ability to support fathers and families in our program.

The training was both informative and transformative. “We can’t express how valuable and inspiring it was,” relayed one participant. “The sessions provided us with innovative strategies and insights that we can’t wait to implement in our programs.”

The collaboration between The Father Center of New Jersey and Younity represents a shared commitment to uplifting families and fostering a supportive environment for fathers. With the insights gained from the training and our shared vision for the future, we are poised for success.

SEE FULL ARTICLE:
https://thefathercenter.org/father-center-younity-partnership/

02/18/2026

Throughout Black History Month, we are celebrating local leaders from the past, such as Dr. Henry J. Austin, who was a successful and influential physician and community leader whose legacy continues to shape Trenton today.

Dr. Austin earned his M.D. from Howard University in 1919 and moved to Trenton to practice medicine after Jim Crow laws prevented him from serving patients in his hometown of Princeton. Beyond his medical practice, Dr. Austin was a steadfast advocate for civil rights and equality. As president of the Trenton NAACP in the 1940s, he played a leadership role during the landmark Hedgepeth-Williams school desegregation case, advancing equity in education and justice in our community.

Today, we proudly honor the legacy of Dr. Henry J. Austin and remain committed to the mission of service, health and opportunity inspired by his life and work.

02/17/2026

Today we honor the life and legacy of Rev. Jesse Jackson — a champion for justice, dignity, and opportunity for all.

His words remind us that perseverance is not just a mindset, but a responsibility to our families and our communities. At The Father Center of New Jersey, we see that spirit every day in the fathers who refuse to give up and continue rising for their children.

02/12/2026

A new report from the National Fatherhood Initiative® (NFI), “The $154 Billion Man: The Economic Argument for Investing in Fathers,” reveals that in 2018 the U.S. government spent $154.2 billion supporting father-absent households across 14 major federal assistance programs. That’s a 54.5% increase since 2006.

The report links father absence to higher poverty rates, increased reliance on public benefits, and negative child outcomes, while emphasizing that government programs help reduce harm. The takeaway is clear: Investing in fathers is an investment in families, children, and the economy.

See full article: https://thefathercenter.org/the-154-billion-man-the-economic-argument-for-investing-in-fathers/

02/09/2026

On this day in Black history, we reflect on R. Henri Herbert.

R. Henri Herbert was the founder of Trenton’s first Black newspaper, which was also one of New Jersey’s earliest. In 1880, Herbert launched The Sentinel, using journalism to amplify Black voices and advocate for civic engagement during a pivotal era.

Beyond publishing, Herbert served in key public roles, including Doorkeeper of the New Jersey Senate, and contributed to national Black publications. A Trenton native, he came from a family of educators, entrepreneurs and trailblazers whose legacy helped shape the city’s cultural and civic life.

Today, we honor his lasting impact on Black media, leadership, and community empowerment.