OUR PROGRAMS
REAL DADS NETWORK
OUR PROGRAMS
We carry out the Real Dads Network's mission through our numerous recurring programs and initiatives.
Discover what we have to offer so YOU can get involved today.
We carry out the Real Dads Network's mission through our numerous recurring programs and initiatives. Discover what we have to offer so YOU can get involved today.
DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE
An elegant event that presents an opportunity for a father or father figure and his daughter (or daughters) to get dressed up, dance, have dinner, talk, laugh, be entertained and share a memorable evening together with other fathers and their daughters.
REAL DADS WEEK
This is a celebratory week aimed at acknowledging and recognizing FATHERS and FATHER FIGURES who are exemplary role models and play such a vital role in the success of children. We are the only organization in the country that celebrates fathers for an entire week.
project ELEVATE
Serving fathers living at or below the federal poverty level, supporting them in becoming self-sufficient, more connected to their children, and more engaged in their communities —strengthening their children’s economic, emotional, and social futures.
project ELEVATE
Serving fathers living at or below the federal poverty level, supporting them in becoming self-sufficient, more connected to their children, and more engaged in their communities —strengthening their children’s economic, emotional, and social futures.
REAL DADS WEEK
This is a celebratory week aimed at acknowledging and recognizing FATHERS and FATHER FIGURES who are exemplary role models and play such a vital role in the success of children. We are the only organization in the country that celebrates fathers for an entire week.
DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE
An elegant event that presents an opportunity for a father or father figure and his daughter (or daughters) to get dressed up, dance, have dinner, talk, laugh, be entertained and share a memorable evening together with other fathers and their daughters.
REAL DADS CLUB​
​RDC is a group of men who meet regularly to have conversations on personal development as we support each other in our relationships and raising our children. We also focus on how we can positively impact our communities.
REAL DADS VOTE
We want men to understand the power of their vote and how voting goes a long way towards making the changes we seek and deserve. Historically, Black Men do not vote in large numbers. We want to change that.
REAL DADS BOOK CLUB
The Real Dads Book Club is for fathers to model the behavior they want for their children, leading by example. We bring a fatherhood community together to learn about and discuss topics that are important to us.
FAMILY FUN DAY
Bringing families together for a day of enjoyment and bonding. Family Fun Day promotes a sense of community, encourages social interaction, and fosters a supportive environment for families to connect.
FAMILY FUN DAY
Bringing families together for a day of enjoyment and bonding. Family Fun Day promotes a sense of community, encourages social interaction, and fosters a supportive environment for families to connect.
REAL DADS VOTE
We want men to understand the power of their vote and how voting goes a long way towards making the changes we seek and deserve. Historically, Black Men do not vote in large numbers. We want to change that.
REAL DADS BOOK CLUB
The Real Dads Book Club is for fathers to model the behavior they want for their children, leading by example. We bring a fatherhood community together to learn about and discuss topics that are important to us.
THE L.O.F.T.
The L.O.F.T. is a Family Enrichment Center based in the Lower East Side of NYC. We partner with families and local leaders to identify community strengths and develop activities, events, gatherings, cafes, workshops, and initiatives (called "Offerings") that grow 1 or more of 5 Family Protective Factors.
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The L.O.F.T. is a Family Enrichment Center based in the Lower East Side of NYC. We partner with families and local leaders to identify community strengths and develop activities, events, gatherings, cafes, workshops, and initiatives (called "Offerings") that grow 1 or more of 5 Family Protective Factors.
Real Dads Network Shelter Services
Real Dads Network Shelter Services provides safe, supportive, and temporary housing for individuals and families experiencing homelessness through a contract with the New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS).
​
Our shelter program is designed to help residents achieve stability while working toward permanent housing and self-sufficiency. We offer a welcoming environment where residents can access case management, housing assistance, employment resources, benefits support, health and wellness services, and connections to community-based programs.
​
At Real Dads Network, we believe that every individual deserves dignity, respect, and the opportunity to build a better future. Our dedicated team works closely with residents to identify their strengths, address challenges, and develop personalized plans that support long-term success.
​
Through compassionate care, strong partnerships, and a commitment to excellence, Real Dads Network Shelter Services helps individuals and families move from crisis to stability and from stability to opportunity.
Real Dads High School Senior Scholarship
RDN offers a scholarship for a graduating NYC Black male high school student. We award one $1,000 scholarship. The Student must demonstrate consistent and strong leadership skills and meet the following eligibility criteria.
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Be a U.S. Citizen
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Be a male or female of color
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Have an 80% High School Grade Average
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Have been accepted to an accredited 4-year College or University for the 2026-2027 school year
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Write an essay (300-word limit) on one of the following topics:
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How the absence or presence of your father in your life has affected you
-
The importance of fathers staying involved in the lives of their children
-
How a college education will affect your life and the life of your family
-
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Provide one letter of reference.
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Be willing and available to accept the scholarship award at the Real Dads Network Scholarship and Awards ceremony on June 8th
For more information and to apply, click here
Navigating the Family Court System
This is a support group for single dads that provides an opportunity for single dads to share their personal experiences and feelings, coping strategies, firsthand information about family court.
The group meets quarterly.
Generational Wealth Building Series
Generational wealth refers to the financial assets passed down from one generation to the next. Real Dads Generational Wealth Building Series aims to educate, inform and provide strategies for building and preserving wealth for fathers and families.
The workshops are in person, and we meet on the first Wednesday of every month at 7:00 pm.
Real Dads Network Shelter Services
Real Dads Network Shelter Services provides safe, supportive, and temporary housing for individuals and families experiencing homelessness through a contract with the New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS).
​
Our shelter program is designed to help residents achieve stability while working toward permanent housing and self-sufficiency. We offer a welcoming environment where residents can access case management, housing assistance, employment resources, benefits support, health and wellness services, and connections to community-based programs.
​
At Real Dads Network, we believe that every individual deserves dignity, respect, and the opportunity to build a better future. Our dedicated team works closely with residents to identify their strengths, address challenges, and develop personalized plans that support long-term success.
​
Through compassionate care, strong partnerships, and a commitment to excellence, Real Dads Network Shelter Services helps individuals and families move from crisis to stability and from stability to opportunity.
Real Dads High School Senior Scholarship
RDN offers a scholarship for a graduating NYC Black male high school student. We award one $1,000 scholarship. The Student must demonstrate consistent and strong leadership skills and meet the following eligibility criteria.
-
Be a U.S. Citizen
-
Be a male or female of color
-
Have an 80% High School Grade Average
-
Have been accepted to an accredited 4-year College or University for the 2026-2027 school year
-
Write an essay (300-word limit) on one of the following topics:
-
How the absence or presence of your father in your life has affected you
-
The importance of fathers staying involved in the lives of their children
-
How a college education will affect your life and the life of your family
-
-
Provide one letter of reference.
-
Be willing and available to accept the scholarship award at the Real Dads Network Scholarship and Awards ceremony on June 8th
For more information and to apply, click here
Navigating the Family Court System
This is a support group for single dads that provides an opportunity for single dads to share their personal experiences and feelings, coping strategies, firsthand information about family court.
The group meets quarterly.
Generational Wealth Building Series
Generational wealth refers to the financial assets passed down from one generation to the next. Real Dads Generational Wealth Building Series aims to educate, inform and provide strategies for building and preserving wealth for fathers and families.
The workshops are in person, and we meet on the first Wednesday of every month at 7:00 pm.
Our Partner and Sponsor Programs
NYPD Explorer Program
Real Dads Network is proud to partner with the NYPD Explorer Program – Police Service Area 5 to bring leadership, mentorship, and real opportunities to our youth
Classes are held every Friday 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Real Dads Network Fatherhood & Family Center
1445 Madison Ave, NY, NY 10029
​
The NYPD Explorer Program is open to youth ages 11–13 (6th–8th grade) and 14–20 (high school or enrolled in an accredited college) and offers:
• Leadership & community service
• Social & outdoor fitness experiences
• Local & national competitions
• Awards & scholarships
• $5 annual processing fee
Interested in joining the NYPD Explorer Program?
Contact: Youth Officer Jones: (929) 216-0907
Youth Officer Bynoe: (917) 900-2470
​
Let’s build leaders, strengthen families, and create pathways for our youth.
Slam Dunk VIP Knicks Experience Program
Real Dads Network's Slam Dunk For Children and Dads VIP Knicks experience program is dedicated to crafting impactful moments for fathers and their children, fostering positive parenting through sports and shared bonding. The program aims to enhance quality time, encourage positive fatherhood, boost children's morale, and integrate the values inherent in sports with those of parenting.
​
Supported by the New York Knicks, Footlocker, and other program backers, Real Dads Network extends an exclusive invitation to fathers and children, granting them a unique VIP Knicks game experience and a complimentary pair of sneakers from Footlocker. This initiative celebrates the profound joy and invaluable relationship between children and their dads.
Street Library
Real Dads Network is in partnership with the grassroots organization The Youth Crime Watch of Liberia, Africa, to support the Street Library Program. Youth Crime Watch exists to empower, improve, and transform people’s livelihood.
​
The Street Library program provides a fun, safe, and encouraging learning space for underprivileged children ages 5-13 every weekday. The children receive two hours of educational games, books, movies, toys, music, and time to be kids!
​
Through this partnership, RDN will be shipping books, supplies, and educational games to the young people of this African community.
International STEM and STEAM Program
Real Dads Network has adopted Clever Minds Free Primary School in the Lyara community Warri Delta state, Nigeria, to help over 500 children get 21st-century tech skills.
​
In December, we purchased 20 Dell Chromebooks for the school, which will be used in their newly built stem lab, which is set to open in February 2022.
​
RDN in partnership with Xstream Team of William and Aida Jackson of My Quest To Teach will be providing STEM and STEAM training sessions for the students and staff at Clever Minds.
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El Barrio Lightning
Real Dads Network is the proud sponsor of the
El Barrio Lightning AAU Basketball organization.
​
By supporting youth teams ranging from 10u to 18u, we are investing in the next generation and strengthening the village that raises them.
Real Dads Health Series
Real Dads Health and Wellness Series empowers fathers to prioritize their well-being and family connections through engaging workshops covering physical fitness, nutrition, stress management, and cancer prevention. Join us to enhance your health, strengthen family bonds, and thrive in a supportive community
RDN offers CPR & Life-Saving Skills at the Fatherhood Center
We’re also offering CPR classes at the Fatherhood Center, giving you the skills and confidence to protect the ones you love when it matters most. These vital sessions will empower you with life-saving techniques that every father should know.
Rooted in Welness: Health for our Brothers
Real Dads Network and Mount Sinia have partnered to bring you
"Rooted in Wellness: Health for our Brothers".
​
At our health events, you'll have the opportunity to:
- Learn about healthy eating habits
- Check different vitals, like blood pressure
- Get a free health screen Amyloidosis
- Refreshments and giveaways provided
Real Dads Network Global Partnership with BMAN Advocacy Nigeria
Real Dads Network is proud to support BMAN Advocacy Nigeria, an organization dedicated to empowering boys and young men through mentorship, advocacy, leadership development, education, and personal growth opportunities.
​
BMAN Advocacy Nigeria works to create safe spaces where young people can learn, develop confidence, build positive relationships, and prepare for successful futures. Through its programs, BMAN addresses the unique challenges facing boys and young men while promoting responsibility, character, education, and community engagement.
​
As part of our commitment to strengthening families and supporting youth development worldwide, Real Dads Network provides support to BMAN Advocacy Nigeria by helping to sustain its program space and contributing to the continuation of its youth programming. This partnership helps ensure that young people have access to a safe and supportive environment where they can receive guidance, mentorship, and encouragement.
​
At Real Dads Network, we believe that investing in young people today creates stronger families, healthier communities, and brighter futures tomorrow. Our partnership with BMAN Advocacy Nigeria reflects our shared commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders and creating opportunities for youth to thrive.
​
Together, we are building bridges across continents to support, inspire, and uplift young people and their families.
​
To learn more about BMAN Advocacy Nigeria and its work, please visit their website.
NYPD Explorer Program
Real Dads Network is proud to partner with the NYPD Explorer Program – Police Service Area 5 to bring leadership, mentorship, and real opportunities to our youth
​
Classes are held every Friday 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Real Dads Network Fatherhood & Family Center
1445 Madison Ave, NY, NY 10029
​
The NYPD Explorer Program is open to youth ages 11–13 (6th–8th grade) and 14–20 (high school or enrolled in an accredited college) and offers:
• Leadership & community service
• Social & outdoor fitness experiences
• Local & national competitions
• Awards & scholarships
• $5 annual processing fee
Interested in joining the NYPD Explorer Program?
Contact: Youth Officer Jones: (929) 216-0907
Youth Officer Bynoe: (917) 900-2470
​
Let’s build leaders, strengthen families, and create pathways for our youth.
Slam Dunk VIP Knicks Experience Program
Real Dads Network's Slam Dunk For Children and Dads VIP Knicks experience program is dedicated to crafting impactful moments for fathers and their children, fostering positive parenting through sports and shared bonding. The program aims to enhance quality time, encourage positive fatherhood, boost children's morale, and integrate the values inherent in sports with those of parenting.
​
Supported by the New York Knicks, Footlocker, and other program backers, Real Dads Network extends an exclusive invitation to fathers and children, granting them a unique VIP Knicks game experience and a complimentary pair of sneakers from Footlocker. This initiative celebrates the profound joy and invaluable relationship between children and their dads.
Street Library
Real Dads Network is in partnership with the grassroots organization The Youth Crime Watch of Liberia, Africa, to support the Street Library Program. Youth Crime Watch exists to empower, improve, and transform people’s livelihood.
​
The Street Library program provides a fun, safe, and encouraging learning space for underprivileged children ages 5-13 every weekday. The children receive two hours of educational games, books, movies, toys, music, and time to be kids!
​
Through this partnership, RDN will be shipping books, supplies, and educational games to the young people of this African community.
International STEM and STEAM Program
Real Dads Network has adopted Clever Minds Free Primary School in the Lyara community Warri Delta state, Nigeria, to help over 500 children get 21st-century tech skills.
​
In December, we purchased 20 Dell Chromebooks for the school, which will be used in their newly built stem lab, which is set to open in February 2022.
​
RDN in partnership with Xstream Team of William and Aida Jackson of My Quest To Teach will be providing STEM and STEAM training sessions for the students and staff at Clever Minds.
El Barrio Lightning
Real Dads Network is the proud sponsor of the
El Barrio Lightning AAU Basketball organization.
​
By supporting youth teams ranging from 10u to 18u, we are investing in the next generation and strengthening the village that raises them.
Real Dads Health Series
Real Dads Health and Wellness Series empowers fathers to prioritize their well-being and family connections through engaging workshops covering physical fitness, nutrition, stress management, and cancer prevention. Join us to enhance your health, strengthen family bonds, and thrive in a supportive community
RDN offers CPR & Life-Saving Skills at the Fatherhood Center. We’re also offering CPR classes at the Fatherhood Center, giving you the skills and confidence to protect the ones you love when it matters most. These vital sessions will empower you with life-saving techniques that every father should know.
Rooted in Welness: Health for our Brothers
Real Dads Network and Mount Sinia have partnered to bring you "Rooted in Wellness: Health for our Brothers".
​
At our health events, you'll have the opportunity to:
- Learn about healthy eating habits
- Check different vitals, like blood pressure
- Get a free health screen Amyloidosis
- Refreshments and giveaways provided
Real Dads Network Global Partnership with BMAN Advocacy Nigeria
Real Dads Network is proud to support BMAN Advocacy Nigeria, an organization dedicated to empowering boys and young men through mentorship, advocacy, leadership development, education, and personal growth opportunities.
​
BMAN Advocacy Nigeria works to create safe spaces where young people can learn, develop confidence, build positive relationships, and prepare for successful futures. Through its programs, BMAN addresses the unique challenges facing boys and young men while promoting responsibility, character, education, and community engagement.
​
As part of our commitment to strengthening families and supporting youth development worldwide, Real Dads Network provides support to BMAN Advocacy Nigeria by helping to sustain its program space and contributing to the continuation of its youth programming. This partnership helps ensure that young people have access to a safe and supportive environment where they can receive guidance, mentorship, and encouragement.
​
At Real Dads Network, we believe that investing in young people today creates stronger families, healthier communities, and brighter futures tomorrow. Our partnership with BMAN Advocacy Nigeria reflects our shared commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders and creating opportunities for youth to thrive.
​
Together, we are building bridges across continents to support, inspire, and uplift young people and their families.
​
To learn more about BMAN Advocacy Nigeria and its work, please visit their website.
1445 Madison Avenue
NYC, NY 10029
(212) 875-7725
realdadsnetwork@gmail.com
© 2026 Real Dads Network
© 2026 Real Dads Network
1445 Madison Avenue
NYC, NY 10029
(212) 875-7725
realdadsnetwork@gmail.com