From Intervention to Tertiary Pathways: A Milestone for Four of our Fathers
This week, Fathers For Families (FFF) acknowledges a significant milestone as four programme graduates commence university study. Three years ago, each of these men entered our service shortly after release from prison. Many were court- or probation-referred and arrived understandably guarded, hesitant, and uncertain about what engagement would require of them.
Over time, as they experienced the depth, structure, and accountability embedded within our intervention model, their commitment strengthened. Each completed Te Ara Poutama o te Matua Marama, our 14-week family violence intervention programme focused on identity reconstruction, relational accountability, fatherhood, and addressing the drivers and impacts of harmful behaviour.
Importantly, these men chose to repeat the programme. With each cycle, their insight deepened, their ownership increased, and their behavioural shifts became more consistent and observable. They progressed from participants to peer supporters—actively contributing within group settings and standing alongside facilitators in a leadership capacity.
In response to their growth trajectory, FFF developed a structured 14-week leadership pathway to extend their development. Through this process, they strengthened communication skills, emotional regulation, professional conduct, and workplace readiness. This progression has culminated in their transition into tertiary education under Te Ara Whakamua – The Pathway Forward, marking the next phase of their restoration journey.
This achievement reflects more than academic enrolment. It represents sustained engagement, measurable behavioural change, and the rebuilding of identity beyond offending history. While accountability for harm remains essential, it is equally important to recognise that many men who enter the justice system have experienced significant trauma and adverse childhood experiences. Long-term community safety is not achieved solely through incarceration; it requires structured intervention, relational repair, and access to meaningful opportunity.
Today, these fathers present with humility, discipline, and commitment. They demonstrate increased emotional awareness, consistent pro-social behaviour, and active involvement in their children’s lives. Feedback from whānau reflects strengthened attachment, increased presence, and restored relational trust.
This milestone represents a positive outcome for families, communities, and systems working toward intergenerational change.
Fathers For Families remains committed to pathways that move men from intervention to restoration, from accountability to leadership.
We congratulate these fathers on their progress and acknowledge the dedication required to reach this point. Their future is being built through sustained effort, responsibility, and purposeful action.
Author: Colleen Fakalogotoa - CEO FFF