Fathers and Families Coalition of Utah

The Fathers & Families Coalition of Utah (FFCU) is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening families by providing education for healthy relationships, fatherhood, and workforce readiness for youth and adults. Our organization was founded by Frank Bedolla, a survivor of the gang lifestyle who eventually transformed his life through the Jobs Corps Program—later earning his diploma, a degree in Psychology, and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Utah.

In 2005, while working at Salt Lake CAP Head Start as the Fatherhood Coordinator, Frank saw firsthand the impact of absent fathers. His research showed many individuals in the juvenile and criminal justice systems grew up without a father figure. This inspired him to create FFCU—an organization focused on strengthening fathers and guiding youth into healthy adulthood.

Today, our Organization provides 4 main programs:

Nurturing Fathers Program (NFP)

• A 13-week, evidence-based course that helps fathers build strong parenting skills, improve communication, and create nurturing relationships with their children. Participants gain practical tools, mentorship, and support to become more involved and confident fathers.

Building Uplifting Relationships (BUR)

• A school-based program for youth (14–18) that teaches healthy relationship skills, boundaries, communication, consent, and violence prevention. BUR helps young people build self-awareness and make informed, respectful decisions.

Jobs Work Program (JWP)

• Provides youth (14–24) with paid job experience, career readiness training, mentorship, and life skills training. Participants gain confidence, workplace skills, and real-world experience to successfully transition into employment.

Pathways to Adulthood (PTA/PTM, Sometimes called Pathways to Manhood)

• Mentors boys and young men as they transition into adulthood. The program focuses on character development, leadership, decision-making, and understanding responsibility, helping participants build a strong foundation for their future.

Throughout the year, we also host several community initiatives, such as:

The Men Engagement Network 

• A collaborative network that meets monthly to strengthen opportunities for men and boys, share resources, and address issues like family stability and sexual violence prevention through community-driven solutions.

The Allies Summit

• A community event that brings together speakers and advocates to discuss issues impacting men, fathers, and families, fostering education, dialogue, and collaboration.

Daddy Daughter Dance

• A meaningful event that strengthens the bond between fathers (or father figures) and daughters, creating positive experiences and lasting memories.

Train-the-Trainer (NFP Facilitator Trainings)

• We host periodic trainings that give participants the opportunity to become certified facilitators of the Nurturing Fathers Program — an evidence-based, 13-week parenting and fatherhood curriculum designed to strengthen families and improve child outcomes. 

Your donation directly supports our general operations and allows us to continue offering free and low-cost programs to families across Utah.

Funding helps us:

• Pay and retain dedicated staff and facilitators

• Provide program materials and curriculum

• Offer mentorship and job training opportunities

• Host community events that strengthen families

This support is more critical than ever. As federal funding becomes uncertain, donations help ensure these life-changing programs remain available to the families who need them most.

If you’d like to learn more about our organization, please visit our website or social pages to get in touch! Every contribution helps us build stronger fathers, healthier relationships, and more resilient communities.