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Empowering Black
Fathers since 2004

Through community, advocacy and excellence

UPCOMING EVENT

June 2nd-7th 2025

Real Dads Week

ABOUT REAL DADS NETWORK

We provide fathers with support,  resources and opportunities that empower them to be the best for their family and community.

The Real Dads™ Network, established in 2004 by Derek Phillips, emerged from the acclaimed documentary "Real Dads-Black Men on Fatherhood" (2000). It addresses the need for a platform where fathers can share stories, access resources, and engage in meaningful conversations about fatherhood.

20

years of service

13+

initiatives

1000+

families impacted

OUR INITIATIVES

Get involved in one of our book clubs, events and more 

We empower fathers by providing them with the support, resources, and opportunities they need to excel in their roles as parents and community leaders.

OUR CORE VALUES

We foster a sense of belonging and connection among fathers, providing a platform for them to share their experiences, learn from one another, and support each other in their journey of fatherhood.

We advocate for shared parenting as the standard for public policy decisions, recognizing the positive impact of involved fathers on children's well-being and development.

SPOTLIGHT

Our Documentary: Real Dads-Black Men on Fatherhood Real Dads-Black Men on Fatherhood 

Our Documentary: Real Dads-Black Men on Fatherhood Real Dads-Black Men on Fatherhood (2000) is an award-winning 26-minute documentary that was co-produced and co-directed by Derek Phillips and Nikki Dees and had commentary by the late great Ossie Davis.

This was the first documentary ever done that focused entirely on Positive Black Fathers.

OUR PARTNERS

We could not do what we do without our incredible partners

THE CHILDREN'S VILLAGE

NEW YORK KNICKS

MEDGAR EVERS COLLEGE

RADIO 103.9

ALLAN HOUSTON LEGACY FOUNDATION

FATHER'S FORWARD MANHATTAN COALITION

THE BROOKLYN FATHERHOOD PARTNERSHIP

RESPONSIBLE

FATHERHOOD COALITION

FATHERS ALIVE IN THE HOOD

100 SUITS

BRONX FATHERS TAKING ACTION

500 MEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE

P.S 153 FATHERS OF HELEN KELLER

FATHERS 4 PROGRESS

DADDY UNIVERSITY

SLEDGE GROUP

FACES

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