Supporting Phoenix families since 1997
Show Up
Stronger
For Your
Family
Parenting does not come with a perfect playbook. Father Matters helps fathers, mothers, and caregivers build stronger families with useful tools, trusted support, and connections to local help.
Prefer to talk? Call 602-774-3298.
What do you need today?
You do not need to know the name of a program. Start with the situation you are facing.
I want to strengthen my family.
Get parenting tools, mentoring, co-parenting help, and support for stronger relationships.
02 / STABILITYI need help moving forward.
Find help with work, reentry, internet access, family court, and basic needs.
03 / COMMUNITYI want to learn and connect.
Explore free classes, family events, resource fairs, workshops, and neighborhood gatherings.
Fatherhood is learned every day
You do not need every answer.
You may be facing conflict, family court, job trouble, reentry, or the daily pressure of trying to be a better parent. Asking for help shows your family that they matter.
Father Matters meets people with respect. We help you see your options, learn useful skills, and take the next step. We know family life is not simple.
Why Father Matters beganOne organization, many ways forward
Practical help for real family life.
Strong families need more than good advice. We connect parenting support with help for daily life.
Strengthen relationships
Parenting classes, father-to-father mentoring, co-parenting help, supervised visits, and family-court education.
Explore family supportBuild greater stability
Job search help, work skills, reentry mentoring, internet access, basic-needs help, and local referrals.
Explore practical supportConnect with community
Free classes, resource fairs, The Gathering Place, workshops, and events that bring Phoenix families together.
See upcoming eventsWhat support looks like
Learn, connect, and get support.
See how families learn new skills, find local help, and meet people who care.
Free Parenting Classes for Fathers
Practical tools for communication, discipline, co-parenting, and stronger family relationships.
View the fathers class
Back to School Resource Fair
Get school supplies, meet local service providers, and help your family start the school year ready.
View the resource fair
Caring Together
A free conference connecting seniors and caregivers with information, support, and community resources.
View Caring Together
The Gathering Place Outdoor Market
Meet local vendors, enjoy the neighborhood, and spend a family-friendly day in South Phoenix.
Explore the outdoor market
Queen for a Day
A special community celebration honoring women with care, connection, and a day created for them.
View Queen for a Day
The Father Matters Show
Join Vance Simms on FaithTalk 1360 AM for honest conversations about fatherhood, family, responsibility, and community.
Listen to the radio show
Ongoing · Call for availability
Father Matters Food Pantry
Find food support for your family through our community pantry and learn how to request assistance.
Learn about the food pantry
Fathers mentoring fathers
Built from lived experience.
Vance Simms grew up without a father figure. He learned firsthand how a good mentor can change a man's path.
That experience shaped a simple belief. Fathers need a place to speak honestly, learn useful skills, take responsibility, and hear from people who understand.
Vance founded Father Matters in 1997. Today, that belief lives in parenting classes, family support, job help, reentry mentoring, and community programs across Phoenix.
Good questions belong here
Questions are welcome.
You do not need to understand every program before reaching out. Here are a few good places to begin.
Is Father Matters only for fathers?
No. Father Matters began with a special focus on fathers, but our classes, resources, and community events support fathers, mothers, caregivers, and entire families.
Are your parenting classes free?
Many parenting classes and community events are offered free. Visit the calendar for current dates, costs, and registration details.
How do I find the right program?
You do not have to figure it out alone. Call 602-774-3298 or tell us what is happening, and our team will help you find a useful next step.
How do I use the food pantry?
Visit our Food Pantry page for current hours, availability, and instructions. Calling ahead is recommended because available food can change.
Where is Father Matters located?
We serve Phoenix families from 3146 E. Wier Ave., Suite 26, Phoenix, AZ 85040 and 2020 W. Durango St., Suite 31, Phoenix, AZ 85009. Call before visiting so we can direct you to the right location.
Can you help with employment, reentry, or family-law issues?
Yes. Father Matters offers workforce assistance, reentry mentoring, job training, and family-law legal assistance. Availability and eligibility can vary by service.
How can I support or partner with Father Matters?
You can make a donation, sponsor community work, or start a partnership conversation. Every contribution helps us keep showing up for Arizona families.