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Inaugural Fatherhood Conference
Strong Fathers + Strong Families = Stronger Communities.
Marriott North, Indianapolis, IN
October 7, 2026
Thank you to the speakers, attendees, sponsors, and partners who made our first Fatherhood Conference possible. Together, we explored how to better support fathers, strengthen families, and build stronger communities.
A Day of Learning and Connection
Our inaugural Fatherhood Conference brought together people working across family services, healthcare, education, workforce development, reentry, and policy to explore a shared question: How can we better support fathers so that children and families thrive?
Keynote speaker Dr. Charles C. Daniels Jr., co-founder and CEO of Fathers’ UpLift, joined presenters who shared research, practical tools, and lived experience. Sessions explored fathers’ mental health, family relationships, economic opportunity, and the barriers that can limit their involvement.
The day created opportunities to exchange ideas, build relationships, and connect fatherhood to the decisions made in our programs, workplaces, and communities.
Conference Highlights
A look back at the people, conversations, and connections from our inaugural Fatherhood Conference.
Conversations from the Conference
Larry Smith | President and CEO, Fathers and Families Center
Teresa Lubbers | Senior Advisor, Sagamore Institute
Steven Chase | Strong Fathers Class 269 Graduate
Jamal Smith | Executive Director, Indy Health District
