The Fortune Society’s Family Services program provides a range of services tailored to meet the distinct needs of formerly incarcerated parents and their families. Through workshops on topics such as family literacy, anger management, and father-to-father mentoring, among others, parents seeking support and resources are equipped with helpful tools while connecting with a lasting, supportive community.   

Gregory, a participant of Fortune’s Family Services program, shared that the program helped him show up better as a parent for his three children. He participated in the 10-week Fatherhood program, where he learned new tools to support and strengthen his relationship with his children.   

Gregory emphasized his perspective on parenting as a team, which he picked up during the Fatherhood workshops.

“When I say team, it’s not just mother and father,” Gregory explained. “It’s cousins, aunties, uncles, and we’re taking care of these children together. Sometimes we have things we need to do, so we take them to a family member’s house or a friend’s house. It takes a village.” 

Through the Fatherhood program, Gregory gained valuable resources and support while building a strong community with the other fathers in the workshop group. They all shared their different struggles, from connecting with their children to co-parenting, child support, and took insight from one another. Building this community is a key part of the program, and Gregory can look to the other fathers as peers who understand the challenges he faces.  

Each year, Family Services transforms the Long Island City service center’s open area into a festive celebration for Fortune families. At the annual Family Services Holiday Party, parents and their children can gather to share meaningful holiday activities, including delicious food, games, music, crafts, and more. Generous donations from the Vera Institute of Justice and from supporters shopping from our Amazon Toy Drive Wishlist ensure that every child leaves with a special gift and lasting memories.  

Gregory brought his children to the annual Family Services Holiday Party last year, and they all had a wonderful time. His children, aged 5, 8 and 8, enjoyed spending time with their dad while getting to know other families in the Fortune community. Gregory shared that the party offered a variety of activities and gifts, ensuring there was something for everyone in his family to enjoy.  

“The food was great, my kids got to take home gifts, and there were fun games like musical chairs,” Gregory said. “It was a party for the kids, but the adults were definitely having fun, as well.”   

This year, Gregory and the other Fortune parents can look forward to another fun-filled family party. It is a joy to see our community gather and celebrate with one another, and a reminder that together, families impacted by the criminal legal system can grow and overcome the challenges they face during reentry