Brooklyn—OHEL recently hosted over 40 post-divorce “Devoted Dads” in a workshop for the non-residential father. The need to address the specific concerns and challenges of the non-residential parent was clearly evident as fathers came from as far as Lakewood and Long Island to attend this event in Brooklyn.

David Mandel, CEO of OHEL, noted the increasing rate of divorce in our communities and how non-residential fathers have the opportunity to greatly impact the development of their children. Dov Wilkes, LCSW from OHEL’s Tikvah Center, discussed the various changes that fathers and children experience as a result of divorce. Practical techniques were offered for Devoted Dads to utilize in both their visitation and their on-going communication with their children. The challenge of Devoted Dads feeling stigmatized was addressed as well, and the need to develop support systems was emphasized throughout the event. The response was enthusiastic and participants stayed to talk long after the official event ended. They asked that more workshops be held so that they could learn more. Fathers can stay tuned for the next workshops at ohelfamily.org/devoted