When it comes to fatherhood in Wichita’s Black community, too often the narrative centers on what’s broken—absent dads, custody battles, and disjointed homes. But for Dennis Fontelroy, founder of Dads Care 2, that story is incomplete.
For over two decades, Fontleroy has been on a mission to rewrite the narrative on Black fathers—one father at a time.
Fontelroy’s commitment to this work didn’t begin in an office—it began in his own home.
Becoming a single parent gave him firsthand exposure to the obstacles many fathers face: navigating the family court system, overcoming stereotypes, and fighting to be present in their children’s lives.
The experience shifted his perspective from theory to lived reality. Before that, his years in prison ministry had revealed a troubling trend: an overwhelming number of incarcerated men—nearly 80% by his observation—came from homes where fathers were absent.
The connection was clear. Fatherlessness wasn’t just a personal issue. It was systemic, generational, and deeply impactful. That clarity led to action.
Fontelroy founded Dads Care 2, a program dedicated to equipping, restoring, and advocating for fathers—particularly Black fathers—who are trying to rebuild relationships with their children and regain their footing as providers and protectors.
Addressing the Real Barriers Fathers Face
Housed at the Urban League of Kansas, Dads Care 2 does more than offer encouragement—it provides tangible support. The program helps men navigate legal systems, connect to job training, and access tools for emotional growth and parenting.
For many participants, it’s the first time anyone has shown them how to be a father—without judgment, just guidance.
Fontelroy understands child support policies, incarceration, and economic instability create a cycle that’s difficult to escape. To help program participants escape these cycles, the program partners with workforce development agencies, community mentors, and legal advocates to help men move forward.
Many of the men who walk through the doors of Dads Care 2 are not absent because they don’t care—they’re absent because they’ve been pushed out, priced out, or written off. The program aims to reverse that.
Father-Focused Curriculum Changes Lives
Unlike generic parenting classes, Dads Care 2 uses a father-focused curriculum built on communication, decision-making, and self-worth. Sessions are hosted in accessible spaces—including Wichita State University—and often include peer-led discussions that foster community and vulnerability.
The results have been powerful. Men have gone from losing custody to sharing parenting time. Some have gone from unemployed to stable providers. Others simply rediscover the confidence to show up and stay present.
Fontelroy has witnessed these changes up close and sees them as nothing short of divine.
“These men aren’t just changing their own lives—they’re changing their children’s lives, too,” he reflects.
Making His Vision a Realty
As the program grows, Fontelroy envisions a future where Dads Care 2 becomes a statewide hub of healing and hope. He believes that empowered fathers lead to empowered families and that with the right support, every father has the potential to lead well.
His vision for the program includes expanding partnerships, strengthening community ties, and shifting the societal narrative around fatherhood—especially in the Black community.
“When fathers are involved,” Fontelroy says, “kids don’t have to look to the streets or a screen for identity. They already have it at home.”
How to Connect with Dads Care 2
To connect with Dads Care 2, call 316-573-6159. Calls will be directed to the appropriate contact.
Needs are assessed individually after the initial call, and every effort is made to support the caller—regardless of background or circumstance.
Dads Care 2 workshops last 6–8 hours and are offered quarterly.Classes are held weekly over an 8-week period and are open to fathers ages 16 to 66.
Referrals are accepted, and walk-ins are encouraged.
Learn More
To learn more about how Dads Care 2 is strengthening Wichita’s families, visit dadscare2.com, call 316-573-6159, or stop by the office at 2418 E. 9th St. N., Wichita, KS
