Development and Implementation of a Multi-Sectoral Fatherhood Collaborative: Lessons from Milwaukee

Abstract

Responsible, involved fathers are integral to the wellbeing of their children, families, and communities. The Milwaukee Fatherhood Initiative (MFI) was founded with the goal of fostering multi-sectoral collaboration able to support and sustain the efforts of fathers and the organizations invested in their wellbeing. This article demonstrates how the MFI formed mutually beneficial community-based partnerships toward this end. Partner roles, accomplishments, strategies for sustainability, and recommendations applicable to forming initiatives in other communities are also provided.