Vermont Fatherhood Launches to Support and Empower Dads Across the State
BARRE — A new organization called Vermont Fatherhood has opened its doors with the goal of helping fathers build skills, connect with one another, and strengthen their relationships with their children.
A Mission to Value Fathers
The group, also known as Green Mountain Dads, was created to elevate the role of fathers and give them practical tools for parenting. According to the organization, its vision is that “every dad feels supported and has the skills they need as a parent and to increase the quantity and quality of their time with their children.”
The group’s philosophy emphasizes that fathers are often undervalued—both by themselves and society—and that parenting is best done within a supportive community. According to Vermont Fatherhood, the goal is to help men build confidence, connect with other dads, and create positive expectations around fatherhood.
Programs for Every Stage of Fatherhood
Vermont Fatherhood has rolled out a series of programs designed to meet fathers where they are in life:
24/7 Dad – A 12-week, evidence-based course from the National Fatherhood Initiative that focuses on building fathering skills and self-awareness.
Training Camp for New Dads – A hands-on, four-hour workshop that covers infant care, preparing for birth, relationship changes, financial planning, and creating support networks.
Drop-In Dads Group – A weekly two-hour session where dads can check in with one another and discuss topics ranging from play and routines to nutrition and mental health.
Drop-In Mornings – An informal, coffee-hour style gathering where fathers can simply show up, connect, and talk.
Mentoring and Coaching – One-on-one sessions where dads set personal goals, strengthen parenting skills, and receive support on issues like co-parenting and separation.
According to organizers, these offerings are designed to give fathers not only the skills to parent effectively but also the community to sustain those skills over time.
The Man Behind the Mission
The driving force behind Vermont Fatherhood is co-founder and director Josh Miller, who has worked in the field of fatherhood and men’s engagement for more than 20 years. According to the organization, Miller’s interest is rooted in his own experience of growing up without a father, giving him personal insight into the challenges many men face.
His past work includes launching “Dedicated Dads Making a Difference” at a Brattleboro Head Start program in 2007, facilitating fatherhood summits across Vermont, and working with incarcerated fathers at the Northwest Correctional Facility. Miller has also provided one-on-one coaching and parenting groups in communities including Burlington and Brattleboro.
Miller is himself the father of four sons and a grandfather.
Community Connections
According to Vermont Fatherhood, an important part of its approach is forging stronger ties between fathers and the professionals who support families—teachers, childcare providers, social workers, healthcare professionals, and local businesses. The organization also encourages men from the community to get involved as volunteers, especially to help staff its informal drop-in gatherings.
Looking Ahead
While still new, Vermont Fatherhood is positioning itself as a statewide resource for dads at every stage of parenting. According to its leaders, the organization hopes to become a place where fathers feel both respected and prepared, while also helping Vermont communities recognize the value of engaged fatherhood.