Playdates are essential to babies overall development

Strength In Fatherhood, Unity In Familyhood

"Our core mission at Dad-A-Port is to support fathers in the early stages of parenthood while also advocating for inclusion and rights for all dads. We foster strong family bonds and provide resources, tools, and skills that can be shared with fathers of children of all ages. We believe in the vital role of dads in child development and are committed to empowering them throughout their journey of fatherhood.

Research shows that a father's absence affects children in numerous unfortunate ways,
while a father's presence makes a positive difference in the lives of both children and mothers.

Andre Apparicio
Founder, Dad-A-Port & Co-Chair, Fatherhood Task Force (SRC 9)

Andre Apparicio is the founder of Dad-A-Port, a fatherhood engagement initiative under A’sani Heartbeat Foundation that empowers fathers to be active, present, and supported throughout every stage of parenthood. As Co-Chair of the Fatherhood Task Force (SRC 9), Andre leads efforts to strengthen the voice and visibility of fathers in shaping family-centered policies, programs, and community systems. His work bridges advocacy and action — creating inclusive spaces for fathers through mentorship, play-based learning experiences, and policy change that uplifts families across Louisiana.

Fathers are a necessity to ensure families thrive….

Dad-A-Port seeks to create new resources through collaboration, recognizing the importance of collective efforts in addressing the needs of fathers and their impact on their children's lives. Studies consistently show that the more involved fathers are in their children's lives, the greater their chances of success. By supporting fathers, we contribute to the creation of successful families, ultimately fostering better communities.

Our advocacy efforts are focused on ensuring that reproductive justice is recognized and upheld as a fundamental human right. Through engaging discussions, educational materials, and community events, we aim to empower individuals and families to make informed decisions about their reproductive health, free from discrimination, stigma, and systemic barriers.

We ensure fathers are included their child’s wellbeing from healthcare to education. Our goal is to provide them with resources to ensure fathers understand their role in reproductive justice.

Ways we engage fathers & youth in our programs......

  • Youth Development & Mentoring

    Youth Development, Fatherhood & Family Wellness, Workshops & Advocacy
    A’sani Heartbeat Foundation offers programs designed to strengthen families and empower the next generation. Our Youth Development initiatives provide mentorship, skill-building, and leadership opportunities that help children and teens thrive.

  • Fatherhood & Family Wellness

    Through Fatherhood & Family Wellness programs, we support fathers and caregivers in building strong, healthy family connections.

  • Workshops & Advocacy

    Our Workshops & Advocacy bring parents and community members together to learn, share, and influence policies that promote family well-being, equitable parenting, and thriving communities.

The Strengths of Father Presence

Children with involved fathers have a strong foundation
for child well-being.

They are at lower risk for a host of poor childhood outcomes.

Infant Mortality Low Birth Weight

Emotional and Behavioral Problems

Neglect and Abuse
Obesity
Poor School Performance Teen Pregnancy Incarceration as Juveniles

Substance Abuse Criminal Activity Suicide

Contact us.

Email: andre@asanihf.org

Instagram: @dadaport