Colorado

Boot Camp for New Dads
Exempla Healthcare – Denver, Colorado

Boot Camp for New Dads has been operating at Exempla Healthcare in Denver, Colorado since 1997.  While the program serves an impressive 1200+ fathers per year, what is most notable is the program’s ability to attract high-risk, low-income dads.  The program’s effectiveness in the low income community has been enabled by the formation of partnerships with systems already serving poor families.

Boot Camp for New Dads is an information and referral source for many of the clinics serving under-resourced families in the Denver area. This on-going relationship serves as a conduit, which brings fathers in need to Exempla healthcare for the workshop.

Internally, the Boot Camp program works closely with two clinics and a prenatal care incentive program to connect with expectant fathers in need.  Like mothers, fathers who participate in classes receive incentive coupons that can be used to purchase baby items in a special store.  By participating in Boot Camp for New Dads the father can earn coupons and receive important information about becoming a dad.

In 2005, 316 fathers from families being seen in area clinics participated in a Boot Camp workshop at Exempla Healthcare.  80 of these fathers returned with their babies to serve as veteran dads.  More information about this program is available by contacting the program coordinator, Chuck Ault at 303-866-8280.