Black dads wanted

"You're going to be a daddy" is an announcement that can strike the fear of god into men. Fatherhood is a responsibility that no one takes lightly; unfortunately, babies don't come with instruction manuals.

For many young black fathers who may have been "caught practising," the role of daddy comes with many unforeseen hardships. Paulette Spence of the Black Community Resource Centre is trying to help young, single black fathers find relief in the task of balancing economics and family--and to break the stereotype of the young, irresponsible deadbeat dad.

"There are a lot of programs which support young black mothers, but there isn't one for fathers," says Spence, who is conducting a survey of black fathers aged 16-25 to help the Centre concentrate its resources more efficiently around them. She has interviewed about 10 men about their lives as young dads (she's looking for about 50 more) and hopes to help them improve their parenting skills and employment opportunities. "We want these men to realize that there are many ways--other than financially--to play an active role in their children's lives."

Black single dads interested in participating in the survey should call the Centre at 342-2247. Tracey Peever