World Vision Lanka’s Ambagamuwa Area Development Program (ADP) in Sri Lanka conducted a three-day MenCare retreat program for 15 families in June 2016.
Before taking part in the family retreat, fathers from the Moray Estate of the Ambagamuwa ADP had completed a series of eight MenCare group workshops led by local trainers. These workshops were based on the Program P methodology, which provides concrete strategies to engage men in active fatherhood from prenatal care through delivery, childbirth, and their children’s early years.
To celebrate, these fathers gathered with their families for a graduation retreat. Kicking off the event, the program coordinator of World Vision Lanka’s Ambagamuwa ADP, A. Nawakumar, explained the purpose of holding a MenCare family retreat and its importance. After that, a local MenCare trainer led an additional session based on Program P.
In the afternoon, a medical professional conducted a session for parents on family planning and healthy sexual relationships; life skills; and the use of positive, nonviolent discipline for children.
At the end of the retreat, fathers pledged in front of all participants to continue to be involved in their families as equitable, nonviolent fathers and caregivers. Then, the fathers formally graduated from the MenCare program.
After the graduation, group photos and family photos were taken and given to the families in the program. Many fathers shared their stories of change on the final day of the retreat.
Read stories of change from past participants in the program here.