On March 17, 2004, I faced the darkest moment of my life when I lost my infant son to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)—a silent, unpredictable monster that left me with what felt like an unbearable weight of grief. It was through the unwavering support of family and friends that I found the strength to move forward.

As time passed, my journey led me to connect with other fathers who shared a fierce love and commitment for their children, similar to my own. Among these connections, it was the conversations with single fathers that struck a chord with me. Despite their undeniable love, it became increasingly clear that they faced unique challenges—a lack of essential resources that hindered their ability to be the best fathers they could be.

These men needed more than just moral support; they needed practical assistance to secure their parental rights, to find safe living conditions for their children, and to afford quality childcare that would allow them to build a stable and nurturing environment. Having walked a mile in their shoes, I felt a compelling duty to act, thus the DWALY Foundation was born.

We are dedicated to empowering single fathers through comprehensive support and resources that nurture their vital role in their children’s lives. Our mission is to ensure that every single father has the tools they need to overcome challenges and thrive as engaged, effective parents.

We envision a world where the role of single fathers is not just recognized but supported. By investing in these fathers, we are investing in the future of their children and, ultimately, the strength of our communities for generations to come.

Thanks for being here,
Darius Kelley, Managing Director