Anthony P.
Anthony P., father of ten, arrived at Fathers & Families Support Center (FFSC) seeking a new direction, a stark contrast to a past shadowed by gang life, drug involvement, and incarceration. Despite these challenges, his love for his children burned brightly. “My kids saved my life,” Anthony shared, a sentiment underscored by the absence of his own father. His grandfather, though often behind bars, provided a crucial lifeline of guidance through weekly phone calls. Yet, the weight of past choices eventually led to Anthony’s own imprisonment.
Upon his release on probation, a bittersweet moment arrived: his grandfather was also freed. Tragically, Anthony’s guiding light was extinguished a year later when his grandpa passed, plunging Anthony into a deep depression. “I had no motivation, didn’t want to interact with my children, I was filled with anger,” he recounted, a dark period that led to another brief stint in jail.
However, a turning point came through his uncle and an FFSC alumnus, who introduced him to the organization’s transformative programs. Reconnecting with his child’s mother via Facebook sparked a flicker of hope, a chance to rewrite his narrative.
Enrolling in FFSC’s 6-week Family Formation program in North County proved to be a revelation. Surrounded by men with shared experiences, Anthony found a sense of belonging and a willingness to learn: “Being around men with life experience who can relate with my own experiences made me feel comfortable and willing to listen,” he says.
The program offered him profound mental and emotional insights, revolutionizing his communication with the mothers of his children. “FFSC taught me how not to be combative and how to communicate with my children,” he says, acknowledging a shift from quick discipline to valuing his children’s voices. He also embraced crucial lessons in financial literacy, part of the six-week program, to help stabilize his home.
Anthony credits FFSC Therapist Dr. Eddie McCaskill for his unwavering support during challenging times: “He was really there for me and understood my challenges,” Anthony explains. The program culminated in a pivotal opportunity: securing full-time employment as a Leasing Agent and Receptionist at McCormack Baron through FFSC’s on-site Job Fairs. He celebrates his first anniversary in this role this May, supporting his family.
Today, Anthony proudly shares his home with three of his ten children, creating cherished memories through darts, park visits, and meals out – a testament to his commitment to active fatherhood. He fosters open communication with the mothers of his other children, ensuring consistent visits and a unified front in their upbringing.
Reflecting on his journey, Anthony offers a powerful testament to the program’s impact: “If you went through this program and didn’t learn anything, you are lying to yourself about who you truly are.” Anthony Palmer’s story is a vibrant illustration of how the guidance and support offered by Fathers & Families Support Center can support fathers to overcome adversity, redefine their roles, and build a foundation for lasting family success.
