According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation, which works to serve children and families, in 2007, almost 40 percent of Alabama children lived in single-parent homes. The numbers jumped significantly when looking at black children — almost 70 percent of which live with just one parent. The overwhelming majority of those children live with their mothers.

With those numbers so high, it’s essential that fathers learn how to be strong, positive influences on their children, even if they don’t live together.

That’s where the F.I.T. DAD program comes in.

The stated purpose of the Fatherhood Initiative Training program is “to ultimately reduce the number of children in Shelby County who are being raised without committed, responsible fathers.”

To complete the F.I.T. DAD program, participants must make at least three child support payments, establish and maintain regular visits with their children and establish a civil relationship with the custodial mother.

The program also offers myriad opportunities for participants to better themselves, ranging from GED preparation and job referrals to substance abuse help and domestic violence education.

Those in the program are working hard to take responsibility for their children and their choices. We wish you the best of luck as you work to make life better and brighter for yourself and those who love you.