the fathering project

workshop inquiry
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Executive Directors Statement

When Alex Bruhanski started “mentoring” young and recent fathers he contacted me and discussed the nature of his workshops produced by himself in his studio and in some regional community centers. I was intrigued and very interested. Although it was clear to me that Bruhanski could and will continue with his workshops , I considered the concept was much bigger than one mans personal experience and the idea ought to be researched expanded and applied on a provincial basis.

Historically, Bruhanski and I had given workshops (separately and together) in theater and had a shared way of working that we both instinctively understood. Finally, I realized I had to become seriously involved and bring my years of Early Childhood Education, my eleven years of “protecting children” on the Internet and my 35 years of fathering experience to this table.

I was struck that this was very relevant and important work. I did some preliminary research and discovered that this concept (preventative errant fathering) by the examination of choices, mythology, options and consequences did not actually exist. What does exist is either religiously biased or centers on alienated fathers rights.

Those are clearly different concepts.

As a father of two grown up males I am cognizant of the magnitude of the undertaking of being a committed father. It is likely to be the longest sustained sustained relationship of a mans life. I am certain for most people what it takes to sustain a committed relationship for over 30 years (at least) is beyond their imagination and they find out what is involved as they go.

It occurs to me that their probably ought to be something like a drivers license for “about to be fathers” and “politicians”. Such important roles so often are plunged into without any awareness of the “pure might” of the project.

Of course their will not be such a drivers license because there is no “right way” to do either. There are only consequences and choices. It was clear to me this was important work and I signed on to help the development of this effort by co-founding the fathering project with the ambition of creating groups all across BC of older experienced fathers mentoring younger men. The principle will be expanded to include separated fathers and any eminent sub division of the fathering process such as gay, disabled and imprisoned fathers.

We are in the “start up “ phase with specific workshops and are pleased to meet anyone who might consider they have any contribution to this process as either a contributer, researcher or a consumer.

This project deserves to be “huge”.

Best Regards

Bob Turner