Scott Couch

Scott Couch, 45, has always worked, creating jobs for himself since the age of 14. “I’ve always had a strong work ethic, and I’m used to being busy and earning money,” Scott said just before breaking down in tears when asked to describe what brought him to Fathers’ Support Center (FFSC).

A hernia surgery kept him off the job longer than he anticipated. “The pain and depression from the surgery were so hard. I ended up losing my job and falling into a deep depression,” Scott said. He lost his home, and then his car was stolen.  “I was at my lowest, but all I could think about was my 8-year-old daughter, Bailey and my girlfriend’s three daughters whom I love like my own,” Scott said. “Her mom and I were separated, and I wanted more than anything to be a great dad for them, but I needed help. I didn’t know where to turn.”

Then one day, change came knocking. A concerned relative offered to take Scott to Fathers & Families Support Center, so he could enroll in FFSC’s Family Formation, Class 126. “My first day, I met so many men who were in the same boat as me,” Scott said.  “And the facilitators were amazing! Especially Mr. Tumlin, who made me feel like I could change my situation,” he added, becoming emotional. “I’m just so grateful to FFSC.”

During his six weeks in the Family Formation, Couch strengthened his parenting skills, learned about economic stability, maintaining a household budget, as well as how to build a successful co-parenting plan with Bailey’s mother. “The biggest thing I learned in class about kids is that they can feel what you’re feeling. You can’t hide it! Kids are sensitive to their parents’ pain,” Scott explained. “From now on, I want to be strong for my daughter.”

Scott also met with FFSC Family Therapists, Eddie McCaskill and Geoff Schaefer, who helped him work through his depression and motivated Scott with new ideas and attitudes for his next chapter in life.

After graduation, FFSC career advisors found Scott a full-time union job with Major Brands, a leading Missouri distributor of beverages. “I couldn’t believe it! I was hired at a job that pays enough where now, I am able to support my family,” Scott exclaimed. “I’m finally feeling like a man and a real father again, and I owe it all to FFSC.”

Note: After Scott graduated from FFSC, June 13, 2018, the mother of his child, Melissa Clark, signed up for FFSC’s Parenting In Partnership, Class 127. “I was so inspired by how far Scott has come!” Melissa said. “We’re together now, and I can’t wait to learn how to be a better mom, so we can be a healthy family again.”