COLUMBUS, Ohio —Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jim Tressel this week announced a new partnership between the Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY) and All Pro Dad, a nationally recognized fatherhood program of the nonprofit Family First. The partnership will expand efforts to strengthen families by connecting fathers across Ohio with resources, encouragement, and connections that help them stay actively engaged in their children’s lives.
Research shows that children with involved fathers are more likely to succeed academically, avoid involvement with the justice system, and experience better long‑term health and economic outcomes.
“Strong families are the foundation of strong communities, and fathers play an irreplaceable role in their children’s lives,” said Governor DeWine. “Through this partnership, Ohio is giving fathers new tools, education, and resources to help them be an engaged, consistent presence in their children’s lives.”
“Fatherhood is one of the most important leadership roles we’ll ever have. When dads are present, engaged, and consistent, they help shape a child’s future,” said Lt. Governor Tressel. “This partnership gives more dads the tools they need that can help them strengthen those fundamentals at home and make a lasting difference in their children’s lives.”
The partnership is supported through Ohio’s new Responsible Fatherhood initiative, an investment to improve the well-being of families by increasing the involvement of fathers. DCY’s Ohio Commission on Fatherhood is leading the state’s fatherhood efforts and has helped position Ohio as a leader in fatherhood engagement through community-based programs, partnerships, and statewide outreach.
To support the initiative, DCY has partnered with Family First to launch the “Win the Everyday” statewide media campaign. The campaign includes placements across social media, digital platforms, connected TV, and out-of-home signage designed to connect fathers with practical tools, inspiration, and fatherhood engagement opportunities.
The “Win the Everyday” campaign launched on March 16.
“For decades, we have worked alongside fathers in communities across the country, and we’ve seen firsthand the difference encouragement and support can make,” said Mark Merrill, Founder and CEO of Family First. “Through All Pro Dad, our mission is for every child to know and experience the love of a dad. We’re honored to partner with Ohio to expand this work and help more fathers win the everyday moments that matter most.”
Head Coach Tony Dungy, Pro Football Hall of Famer, Super Bowl–winning coach, and co-founder of All Pro Dad, emphasized the life-changing impact of a father’s presence.
“Fatherhood isn’t about being perfect — it’s about being present,” said Tony Dungy. “Some of the most important lessons a child will ever learn come from watching their father show up, encourage them, and lead by example. This partnership sends a powerful message to fathers across the state: you matter, your role matters, and All Pro Dad is here to help.”
In addition to the media campaign, the partnership will expand several of All Pro Dad’s signature programs across Ohio, including the All Pro Dad School Chapter Program and the All Pro Dad Experience, an interactive event for fathers and children held in NFL and college venues.
All Pro Dad currently operates more than 1,500 school chapters across 38 states, including 30 in Ohio, providing school-based programming, mentorship, and ongoing engagement opportunities that help fathers build stronger relationships with their children.
The All Pro Dad Experience will take place June 15 at The Ohio State University Woody Hayes Athletic Center, bringing fathers and children together ahead of Father’s Day to create meaningful memories and celebrate engaged fatherhood.
Senate President Rob McColley, who led the legislative effort to include this initiative in Ohio’s operating budget, emphasized its long-term impact.
“As a dad to twin boys and a daughter, I know the important role fathers play in providing a foundation for the family,” said Senate President Rob McColley. “The Responsible Fatherhood Initiative is one of the smartest investments we can make for the future of Ohio.”
The Ohio Department of Children and Youth, which oversees the initiative, supports the partnership with All Pro Dad.
“When fathers have access to the right support and encouragement, families grow stronger,” said DCY Director Kara Wente. “Through this partnership, we are connecting fathers across Ohio with education, guidance, and connections that help them build lasting relationships with their children.”
For more information on All Pro Dad and the “Win the Everyday” campaign, visit AllProDad.com/win.
