We Can Help.
Compadre Y Compadre™
Compadre Y Compadre™ exists to strengthen fathers in their role as caregiver, provider, teacher and hero. Fathers come together in a group setting to build their knowledge and skills, which help them develop strong nurturing relationships with their children and family. The program enrolls fathers of all ages-including grandfathers and stepfathers. Upon completion, participants can enroll in the Mentor program and become a Compadre to incoming dads.
Building Nurturing Fathers
Fathers begin the program with a two-week “Daddy Boot Camp,” an intense immersion into the world of parenting, during which they learn about child development milestones, infant massage techniques, and infant safety precautions. “Daddy Boot Camp” participants also receive hands-on training to be able to change diapers, feed children and provide age-appropriate activities to engage and entertain kids.
After “Daddy Boot Camp,” fathers go on to complete a 15-week parenting class, utilizing the evidence-based Nurturing Fathers curriculum, a national model through which men develop the skills and attitudes for male nurturance. Trained parent educators lead participants in a group experience, covering topics such as non-violent discipline, appropriate boundaries, stress management, self-awareness and overcoming barriers. A graduation ceremony is held at the end of each 15-week program, and new programs begin throughout the year.
Compadre Y Compadre® Mentors Program
Once a father completes the 15-week program, he is eligible to become a Compadre Y Compadre™ Mentor. Fathers interested in continuing as Mentors will further enhance their parenting skills through the evidence-based Abriendo Puertas/Opening Doors curriculum, addressing school readiness and the parent’s role as the child’s first teacher.
After completing the Abriendo Puertas curriculum, a father may officially become a Mentor, taking on a leadership role in co-facilitating programs, providing community service projects, and mentoring other dads. Compadre Y Compadre™ Mentors understand their important role in their children’s lives, as well as their ability to give back to the community through their leadership and example.
Program Results
Last year (FY 19), 569 fathers and 1,470 children were served in the Compadre Y Compadre™ program.
- 306 fathers graduated from the program
- 97% of male caregivers improved in positive parenting and child rearing attitudes.
- 100% of fathers had no occurrence of child abuse and neglect
- 60 fathers participated in the Compadre y Compadre™ program at the Bexar County Adult Detention Center
COMPLETE THE FAMILY STRENGTHENING PROGRAM ONLINE INQUIRY FORM
I am walking with a new understanding of what it means to be a father.
I liked being able to be around other fathers who are going through the same or similar situations. I got the chance to be able to realize that we all have the power to change.
It helped me become a father/Dad and helped me come to terms with my father and helped me heal a lot of wounds I didn’t even know I had.
We were provided knowledge and taught to be strong men, expressed thru the example of being a father.
He aprendido cosas nuevas sobre el cuidado de los ninos en especial mis hijos. Valorar siempre a tu familia respetar y amar a tu familia.
(English translation: I have learned new things about caring for children, especially my children. To always appreciate your family, respect and love your family.)
Who is Eligible?
Compadre y Compadre™ is a free program, open to any father or male caregiver of a child under age 18 in San Antonio or Bexar County.
For more information, please contact:
Daisy Garcia at (210) 212-2515, dcgarcia@chshel.org
Compadre y Compadre™ is funded in part by The United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County.
