The Advancing Fathers program has a two-fold emphasis. First, to provide direct services to fathers and mothers to support and improve father involvement in the family. Secondly, to promote community awareness about the importance of fatherhood through our community Fatherhood Coalitions. Fatherhood coalitions are a powerful catalyst for connecting fathers to community programs. They help fathers increase their parenting skills and build and nurture connections with each other, with the mothers of their children, and with their children. Their skills-building workshops and parent support groups are available locally and virtually, making it possible for anyone throughout Illinois to join.