By implementing the project we aimed to promote equitable parenthood as a key aspect of gender equality. Our goals included increasing the capacities of partner organizations for successful gender-transformative initiatives and strengthening the competencies of experts working with families and men to promote engaged fatherhood. We sought to develop more gender-equal attitudes and behaviors in parenting among men as well as enhance their parenting skills. We wanted to upgrade and innovate our methodologies and activities with fathers to make them more relevant and impactful. We wanted to involve more professionals in the work with men on equal parenthood and train them with the skills and knowledge needed for successful gender-transformative interventions. Also, we aimed to reach a broader audience of fathers through educational and awareness-raising activities. We strengthened our partnership with MÄN, sharing experiences and expertise. We improved our methodology and adapted a new approach, enhancing our capacities and those of professionals working with fathers, as well as fathers facilitating groups. We created innovative formats for fathers to learn and connect with other fathers, even in areas we could not physically reach.
The project was initiated to address the concrete needs of the participating organizations and their target groups. With over seven years of experience in the area of fatherhood education, we recognized challenges in recruiting fathers for long-term participation and the need for digital alternatives due to the pandemic. Additionally, the existing Program T methodology required updating to address the evolving social landscape and maximize impact. To innovate and improve our practice, we aimed to develop new approaches and tools in fatherhood education. We sought to widen the network of fatherhood education experts by providing training and capacity-building opportunities for professionals and students in the updated methodology. Despite our increased capacities, we were able to reach only a limited number of fathers directly. To address this gap, the project developed targeted promotional and educational video materials to reach a wider audience of men, promoting the benefits of engaged fatherhood and fostering positive change in the community. Through these efforts, we aimed to create lasting impact and meaningful change in the lives of fathers and their families.