Mayor Adams launches Father Friendly Summer, digital hub featuring free, family-friendly events and citywide resources for fathers
New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Children’s Cabinet Executive Director Ahsia Badi, and New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) Commissioner Keith Howard unveiled “Empowering Fathers, Thriving Children: A Citywide Fatherhood Plan.” The fatherhood plan is a framework outlining how New York City will strengthen father and father-figure engagement, expand parenting support, and ensure every child benefits from the presence of a caring dad or father figure in their lives, including by obtaining educational and vocational training, supportive programs for fathers involved in the criminal legal system, mentorship, and more. As part of the effort, the city launched “Father Friendly Summer,” a new digital hub offering free events, resources, and updates on how city agencies are building father-friendly programs citywide.
“I’ve done many things in my life, but being a father is my greatest accomplishment. The role of fathers in our families and in our communities is invaluable, and this administration is committed to making sure all fathers and father-figures have the tools needed to show up for their children and their families,” said Mayor Adams. “Our new ‘Fatherhood Plan’ and the ‘Father Friendly Summer’ digital hub are bold steps toward ensuring every father in New York City has the tools, support, and opportunities to thrive because when fathers thrive, children thrive — and so does our entire city.”
“My father was an anchor in my life, and I’ve seen how deeply fathers like mine can impact our communities — simply by being powerful agents of stability and growth,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana J. Almanzar. “This initiative is about more than support — it’s about recognition, inclusion, and ensuring that every father, no matter his background or circumstance, has a place in the fabric of New York City’s future.”
“The role of fathers in our families, neighborhoods, and society cannot be overstated. We are committed to ensuring New York City sets the standard for how communities support and uplift fathers,” said Children’s Cabinet Executive Director Badi.
“Before I became DYCD commissioner overseeing the ‘Fatherhood Initiative,’ I was a single father of two who personally benefited from the services of the Real Dads Network. The knowledge and support I received helped me become a better father and raise my children, Maya and Tyler, in a loving, nurturing environment,” said DYCD Commissioner Howard.
As part of the plan, the city launched the Father Friendly Summer Hub, a centralized online hub for fathers to find a curated list of free, family-friendly events and information on how city agencies are integrating father-friendly policies into their programs. From park outings and trips to the library to parenting workshops, New York City is making it easier than ever for fathers to connect with their children and their communities.
