IAAQLI and ADFF award Fathers and Families Center Grants Totaling $560,000 to Strengthen Long-Term Employment Outcomes and Improve the Lives of Children

Indianapolis, IN — December 16, 2025— Fathers and Families Center (FFC) has received two grants totaling $499,871 from the Indianapolis African American Quality of Life Initiative (IAAQLI). FFC will use the grants to enhance employment opportunity and support long-term economic stability for low-income dads and their families.

One grant, in the amount of $249,871, will support initiatives that are focused on improving long-term employment outcomes, including workforce readiness and sustained job placement support. An additional $250,000 grant, awarded in partnership with a company called Minority Moves Network (M2N), will expand job search options and employment pathways, connecting participants to a broad range of employment opportunities across Central Indiana. Both grants benefit fathers who are struggling economically.

FFC also received a $60,000 grant from the Arthur Dean Family Foundation (ADFF). As is the case with the IAAQLI grant, the grant from ADFF will go towards enhancing employment opportunities, increasing wages, and improving overall financial stability for FFC’s constituents. The grant is also designed to provide increased opportunities for fathers to spend time with their children.

“It is truly humbling to receive continued support from both IAAQLI and ADFF”, said Larry Smith, President & CEO of Fathers and Families Center. “Their gifts, not only to FFC but to other wonderful organizations, have fostered a renewed sense of hope in the future of our community, especially among fathers. We are truly humbled and grateful for their trust in us.”

Together, the grants reflect a shared commitment to advancing workforce equity, economic opportunity, and family well-being throughout Indianapolis.

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About Fathers and Families Center:

Fathers and Families Center is a nationally recognized 501(c)(3) organization that is at the forefront of fatherhood engagement and education. Since its inception in 1993, FFC has served roughly 26,000 fathers and their families, impacting an exponential number of children whose futures have been transformed for the better.

FFC’s mission: Fathers and Families Center equips fathers and empowers families to ensure that children thrive.

FFC’s vision: All fathers have what they need to transform their children’s destiny.