Dad 2 Dads

Encouraging and empowering fathers through peer support

Dad 2 Dads connects fathers with experienced dads who understand the challenges and joys of parenting. Through mentorship, group activities, and shared experiences, we help fathers build confidence, strengthen parenting skills, and form lasting connections.

Our mentors offer practical advice, emotional support, and a listening ear—whether you’re navigating sleepless nights, learning new parenting techniques, or working toward personal goals. Dad 2 Dads creates a safe space for fathers to share, grow, and succeed.

Contact Our Team

Phone: 757-622-7017

Email: homevisiting@theupcenter.org

Registration

What We Offer

Learn from Other Dads

Get practical tips and encouragement from fathers who’ve been where you are.

Build Your Confidence

Gain skills and strategies that help you feel prepared and capable in your role as a parent.

Be Part of a Community

Connect with other dads who understand your journey and want to see you succeed.

Strong fathers make strong families

Children benefit when fathers are actively involved in their lives. Dad 2 Dads gives men the tools, confidence, and support to be present, engaged parents—strengthening families and communities.

Meet Our Team

Meet Our Team

James Butts
Gemayl Johnson
Dad Engagement Specialist

James serves as a Dad Engagement Specialist for Dad Engagement Services. He is a graduate of Liberty University and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology: Crisis Counseling. He has passionately worked in the community delivering child development education, family support and advocacy to families across Hampton Roads since 2007. In his spare time, James enjoys coaching, spending time with family and exercising. 

Dad Engagement Specialist

As a Dad Engagement Specialist, I support fathers in strengthening their parenting skills, building relationships with their children, and connecting with resources that promote family stability. I bring 17 years of experience in mental health, special education, and crisis intervention to my work at The Up Center.

I’m motivated by the opportunity to help fathers recognize their value and impact within their families. I love engaging with dads in the community and helping them grow in confidence as parents. Outside of work, I still play basketball at 41 in local pro-am leagues.

Real Voices

For months, Justin had been preparing for one of the most important moments of his life—the birth of his second child. A longtime participant in The Up Center’s Dad Eng
For months, Justin had been preparing for one of the most important moments of his life—the birth of his second child. A longtime participant in The Up Center’s Dad Engagement program, he had attended every group session, asked questions, and supported his high-risk fiancée with care and commitment. When complications arose near the due date, Justin stayed grounded, drawing on the tools and confidence he had gained through the program.
When Jeremy joined The Up Center’s Dads Under Construction group, he was eager to learn how to be the best father he could be. Week after week, he showed up ready to li
When Jeremy joined The Up Center’s Dads Under Construction group, he was eager to learn how to be the best father he could be. Week after week, he showed up ready to listen, share, and grow alongside other dads preparing for fatherhood. But after the birth of his baby in fall of 2024, life became busier.
When Terrence first joined The Up Center’s Dad 2 Dads group, he was struggling quietly. On the verge of divorce and feeling emotionally overwhelmed, he came to the sess
When Terrence first joined The Up Center’s Dad 2 Dads group, he was struggling quietly. On the verge of divorce and feeling emotionally overwhelmed, he came to the sessions unsure of what to expect—and completely closed off to the idea of therapy. He told himself he was just there to listen, not to share.
When Tyrell first joined The Up Center’s Dads Under Construction group, he was preparing for one of life’s biggest changes—becoming a father. He had been referred by a
When Tyrell first joined The Up Center’s Dads Under Construction group, he was preparing for one of life’s biggest changes—becoming a father. He had been referred by a home visitor who was already working with his partner through The Up Center’s early childhood home visiting program. Together, they entered their respective programs before their baby’s birth, both determined to give their child the best possible start.
When James first joined The Up Center’s Dads Under Construction group for new and expecting fathers, he wasn’t sure what to expect. He and his partner were preparing fo
When James first joined The Up Center’s Dads Under Construction group for new and expecting fathers, he wasn’t sure what to expect. He and his partner were preparing for the arrival of their first child—a high-risk pregnancy that brought equal parts joy and anxiety. During one group session, James shared that he and his partner often felt rushed by their doctor during prenatal appointments and worried their concerns weren’t being heard.

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