THE F.A.T.H.E.R. PROJECT (Friends As Teachers Helping Encourage Responsibility) A NURTURING PROGRAM FOR FATHERS Fathering is one of the most important jobs men do! The FATHER Project is a support group for fathers or grandfathers who are interested in learning how to be better nurturers. The men are encouraged by trained facilitators to share concerns about being a parent or grandparent. The group gives men the opportunity to discuss their fathering concerns with other men and problem-solve together. Discussions between the men create an educational atmosphere in which to learn responsible fathering. Topics include:    Nurturing Ourselves  How to Play    Anger Management  Balancing Work and Fathering    Nurturing Our Children   Nurturing Relationships    Career Planning  Fathering Our Sons/Daughters Classes are held in 12-week sessions: Week 1: The Roots of Fathering Week 2: Self-Nurturing Skills I: Fathering the Little Boy Within Week 3: Self-Nurturing Skills II: The Power to Meet My Own Needs Week 4: The World of Male Nurturing Week 5: Nurturing Fathering Practices I: The Power to Nurture Week 6: Nurturing Fathering Practices II: Stopping Violence/Managing Anger Week 7: Fun and Games: Father Play Week 8: Play Shop: An Evening of Fun and Games for Fathers and Their Children Week 9: Nurturing Relationships I: Fathering Sons/Fathering Daughters Week 10: Nurturing Relationships II: Teamwork between Father and Spouse (Co-Parent) Week 11: A Time and Place for Fathering Week 12: Healing the Father Wound Endings and New Beginnings - Graduation Celebration Classes are held once a week on Thursday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at VNA HomeCare, Hospice & Family Support Services, 901 S. Woodland Ave., Michigan City, Indiana. The program is FREE and open to any La Porte County father or grandfather. Call 219-879-9574 or 800-582-4198 to register. The FATHER Project is a collaborative effort between Unity Foundation of La Porte County, Even Start, La Porte County Office of Family and Children, and VNA HomeCare, Hospice & Family Support Services. VNA is a division of La Porte Hospital and Health Services.   Go to Organizations or LaPorte County Link Home Page.