By: Jordan Meadows
Staff Writer
A wave of optimism swept through Raleigh as Fathers Forever, a local nonprofit dedicated to empowering fathers, hosted a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony at its newly expanded campus on Stony Brook Road.
The event on Thursday drew a crowd of supporters, community leaders, and program participants to witness a new chapter in the organization’s journey.
The ceremony’s keynote speaker was First Lady Anna Stein, who shared her personal and professional commitment to supporting rehabilitation and reentry efforts in North Carolina.
“This work has informed two of my top priorities as First Lady, which are to reduce stigma against people with substance use of mental health disorder into approved rehabilitation and reentering incarcerated people,” said Stein. “We are all more than what we’ve done on our worst days. I believe in second chances.”
Founded in 2008, Fathers Forever has become a means of transformation for men seeking a path back to family, purpose, and stability.
Thursday’s ribbon cutting marked the unveiling of new facilities designed to broaden the organization’s impact, including additional program space, a food pantry, a new barbershop, and expanded transitional housing services.
“This expansion represents our commitment to providing fathers with the resources and support they need to build strong, healthy families,” said Dr. Glen Warren, Founder and Executive Director of Fathers Forever. “With the addition of these new spaces, we can offer more programs and services to better serve our community.”
Warren, a father of three and a former Wake County Mental Health Crisis Counselor, has dedicated over 25 years to empowering men. He retired with over two decades of service in crisis counseling for individuals struggling with depression, suicidal thoughts, and substance abuse.
“I understand the power and necessity of fathers being a contributing, positive presence in the lives of their children,” Warren shared.
At the heart of Fathers Forever’s work is Fathers Forever University (FFU)—a comprehensive 12-week educational program that teaches responsible fatherhood, healthy relationships, financial literacy, personal development, and job readiness. The course includes 12 webinars, homework assignments from the organization’s textbook "I Am a Father Forever", and offers personal coaching and a certificate upon completion. Participants are given 18 weeks to finish the 12-week curriculum to accommodate life’s demands.
Other cornerstone programs include Transitional Housing, which currently operates five homes named after Dr. Warren’s family members. These homes provide safe, supportive environments for men as they transition back into their communities.
The Simply Suits Store helps participants feel confident and job-ready by offering affordable professional attire, and the new on-site barbershop gives fathers a fresh haircut before they suit up for interviews or work. The food pantry remains a vital resource for families in need, providing consistent access to essential groceries.
Fathers Forever’s impact continues to grow. As of August 2025, 1,195 men have been housed and supported with wraparound services since 2017. Since February 2025 alone, 60 men working to overcome Opioid Use Disorder have been served. Hundreds of fathers have completed the soon-to-be evidence-informed fatherhood curriculum. Notably, 7 of the organization’s 22 staff members are justice-impacted individuals who now serve as leaders and mentors, exemplifying the power of second chances.
The U.S. has the highest rate of fatherlessness in the world. Around 90% of homeless and runaway children are from fatherless homes, and 60% of youth suicides involve fatherless children. In one study, 70% of youth in state-run facilities came from homes without fathers.
Children in single-parent homes are statistically twice as likely to experience mental health and behavioral challenges. Academic performance is also affected—children with engaged fathers are 33% less likely to repeat a grade and 43% more likely to earn A’s in school. With approximately 80% of single-parent homes being led by mothers, the need for father-focused programs has never been greater.
Guests at the event enjoyed desserts from Sweet & Savory by Chef Tandra, a beloved bakery from downtown Louisburg. Attendees were treated as they toured the newly expanded campus and connected with Fathers Forever staff, alumni, and community supporters.
Fathers Forever’s reach continues to expand as it works closely with Wake County Child Support Court, offering court-approved programming and mentoring since 2010. In recognition of its impact, Fathers Forever was honored with the Triangle NC Cares Award in June 2022.
“We can’t do this alone,” said Dr. Warren. “But together, we can restore families, strengthen communities, and give men the tools to succeed—not just as individuals, but as fathers forever.”
