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New IU Study Finds Fathers and Families Center Generates Millions in Economic Impact While Strengthening Indiana Families
- djones8252
- Feb 27
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 15
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Indianapolis, IN — February 16, 2026
A new independent research project by the Indiana University Public Policy Institute (PPI) has revealed that the Fathers and Families Center (FFC) not only strengthens fathers and families across Indianapolis but also delivers significant economic benefits to Marion County and the State.
Economic Contributions of Fathers and Families Center
According to the study, FFC generated more than $10.7 million in total economic output across 2023 and 2024 and supported 47 jobs.
“The value of fatherhood programs is often framed only in social terms,” said Larry Smith, President & CEO of Fathers and Families Center. “This research project shows that investing in fathers is also an investment in the local economy, the workforce, and the long-term stability of families and communities.”
Significant Economic Impact
The IU PPI analysis found that FFC’s organizational operations alone generated:
$5.2 million in economic output in 2023
$5.6 million in economic output in 2024
Growth of more than 7% year over year
Workforce Gains Through Strong Fathers
The research also examined the impact of FFC’s Strong Fathers program, which supports unemployed and underemployed fathers in gaining skills, credentials, and employment. Among fathers who were unemployed when they enrolled:
Participants earned over $2.3 million in new wages across 2023 and 2024.
Those wages generated an additional $777,000 in economic activity.
Strong Returns on Philanthropic Investment
The study found that charitable contributions to Fathers and Families Center also produce strong economic returns. For every $100 donated, FFC generated $147 in economic activity, creating a 47% return above the original investment for the local economy.
Broader Community Impact
Beyond economic measures, a separate IU PPI evaluation of the Strong Fathers program documented measurable improvements in:
Employment outcomes, with unemployment among surveyed participants decreasing from 50% before the program to 29% after, and full-time employment increasing from 17% to 29%.
Workforce advancement, with 70 fathers securing employment placements in 2024 at an average wage of $18.30 per hour.
Educational and credential attainment, with 121 participants completing advanced training, certification, or licensure in 2024.
Parenting confidence and father-child relationships, with fathers agreeing with “I am confident in my ability to be a father” increasing from 72% before the program to 97% after.
The Importance of Fatherhood Programs
Fatherhood programs play a crucial role in our communities. They not only support fathers but also uplift entire families. When fathers are engaged, children thrive. This engagement leads to better educational outcomes and healthier family dynamics.
About Fathers and Families Center
Founded in 1993, Fathers and Families Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to equipping fathers and empowering families so children thrive. Serving nearly 30,000 fathers and families since its founding, FFC provides fatherhood education, workforce development, and family support services throughout Indianapolis.
About the Indiana University Public Policy Institute
The Indiana University Public Policy Institute, part of the Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, delivers unbiased research and data-driven analysis to inform decision-making across Indiana’s public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Contact Information
Drew Jones
Communications Manager
Fathers and Families Center
317-671-7943
Read the full study here: https://anyflip.com/bookcase/ibeze
In conclusion, the findings of this research highlight the profound impact that fatherhood programs have on both individual families and the broader community. By investing in fathers, we are investing in the future of our children and our economy. Together, we can break the cycles of poverty and create a brighter future for all families.
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