Ohio Takes a Bold Stand Against Fatherlessness – and I’m Here for It
Partnering with State Government
To make meaningful change.
I’ve seen a lot in my years working to fight fatherlessness. From small church basements to state capitols, I’ve watched communities rise up and take ownership of a problem too big for one person, one program, or even one organization to solve alone. But what just happened in Ohio? That’s a game-changer.
The Ohio General Assembly just approved dedicated funding for the Responsible Fatherhood Initiative—a move that positions Ohio as one of the first states in the nation to invest seriously in comprehensive, faith-informed efforts to support fathers and rebuild families. And they didn’t do it halfway. This is the kind of bold, forward-thinking action that can turn the tide for countless kids who, right now, are growing up without a consistent dad in their life.
I’m especially grateful to leaders like Senate President Rob McColley, House Speaker Matt Huffman, Senate Finance Chairman Jerry Cirino, and House Finance Chairman Brian Stewart for championing this cause. They understand that this isn’t just about passing a bill—it’s about reshaping futures.
At Man Up and Go, our fatherhood ministry, Patros, has already proven what’s possible. In Florida—where similar legislation passed unanimously in 2022—we’ve seen foster care placements in the greater Tampa Bay area drop by more than 50%. Even more encouraging, 91% of the fathers we work with report being more engaged with their kids after completing our program. That’s not theory; that’s transformation.
In Ohio, we’ve got some serious backup. Ohio State football standouts Emeka Egbuka, TreVeyon Henderson, JT Tuimoloau, Cardale Jones, and Kamryn Babb are lending their voices to help raise awareness. It’s powerful when men of influence step up and say, “This matters.”
Here’s the truth: kids need dads. In my home state of Florida, and in communities across America, fatherlessness is at the root of so many issues—poverty, incarceration, academic failure, and more. By equipping men to lead with love and purpose, we can flip the script. I’ve seen it happen.
Ohio, you’ve set the bar. Now, let’s get to work.
Be well,
Jeffrey Charles Ford