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USAID Mentors Young Fathers in Uganda

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USAID Mentors Young Fathers in Uganda: REAL Fathers Initiative

USAID’s Responsible Engaged and Loving (REAL) Fathers Initiative is a community-based mentoring program in Uganda. REAL aims to build positive partnerships and parenting practices among young fathers (ages 16-25) to reduce the incidence of intimate partner violence and physical punishment of children. REAL was piloted from 2013-2015 in Northern Uganda and scaled up in Karamoja and Northern Uganda from 2015-2017. Photo credit: Save the Children.

USAID Mentors Young Fathers in Uganda: REAL Fathers Initiative

REAL Fathers is designed to work with young men when they are transitioning into new life roles as partners and parents. Young fathers who participate select a mentor in the community. Community mentors are individuals that are trusted and respected in the community. Mentors provide guidance to young fathers as they learn and practice skills. At the end of the program, a community celebration is held for young fathers come to together with their families and community elders. Photo credit: Save the Children.

USAID Mentors Young Fathers in Uganda: REAL Fathers Initiative

“The mentors have been training us on themes like positive, non-violent child discipline….We are now peaceful in our home. We share roles at home and I play with my children.” – 21-year-old REAL Father. Photo credit: Save the Children.

USAID Mentors Young Fathers in Uganda: REAL Fathers Initiative

“I used to be jealous when I saw my colleagues happy and prospering in their families. But now, at least with the mentoring I have had, I have also changed my family. We are happy. I help my wife and care for my children.” – 20-year-old REAL Father. Photo credit: Save the Children.

USAID Mentors Young Fathers in Uganda: REAL Fathers Initiative

“I have been attending individual and group mentoring sessions, where we share ideas and experiences with fellow young fathers and mentors...This project has given me new skills in life like relating with my wife and children. It…helps in solving any home issues through the advice we get…Even if this project looks simple, it has come to help me and my family members to have a happy family.” – 20-year-old REAL Father. Photo credit: Save the Children.

USAID Mentors Young Fathers in Uganda: REAL Fathers Initiative

“I practice what they mentor me on at home like playing with my children. I have really been involved in the project….I have now changed completely. I now talk to my wife humbly in a lovely way. So we can now share tasks at home like working in the garden.” – 24-year-old REAL Father. Photo credit: Save the Children.

USAID Mentors Young Fathers in Uganda: REAL Fathers Initiative

“We were divided in our home and could not help each other. I used not to consult my wife at all or even engage her in decision making on any issues. I now listen to my wife and we share ideas. I also wash the children’s clothes. When my wife goes for firewood, I stay to cook for the children and feed them.….I hope to get more committed and make my family one of the best in this community.” – 26-year-old REAL Father. Photo credit: Save the Children.

USAID Mentors Young Fathers in Uganda: REAL Fathers Initiative

“We actually work together these days. This project has rekindled our relationship. We care for our children and we have even built another house together. I play with my children well. Our relationship with the relatives has also improved greatly. My dream is to strengthen my family and be able to educate my children.” Photo credit: Save the Children.

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