U.S. Representative calls Spokane Fatherhood Initiative “a pillar in our community”
Just days after our Building Legacy celebration, the Spokane Fatherhood Initiative received recognition on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives.
On December 2nd, Congressman Michael Baumgartner rose to honor Ron Hauenstein and SpoFI’s seven years of transformative work across Eastern Washington. His remarks, delivered to Congress and entered into the Congressional Record, acknowledged the impact of investing in engaged fatherhood.
When fathers are present, engaged children do better
Congressman Baumgartner’s address captured what we’ve witnessed since launching in 2018: fathers showing up for their families changes everything.
“Their guiding belief is simple but powerful,” the Congressman stated. “When fathers are present, engaged children do better and entire communities prosper. Time and again, families across Spokane have been reunited and lives have been changed for the better—one dad, one child, and one family at a time.”
He specifically acknowledged SpoFI’s evidence-based programs, weekly classes that sometimes last half a year, and specialized outreach to men reentering society after incarceration or dealing with addiction.
From Saturday’s celebration to congressional recognition
The Congressman’s team attended our Building Legacy Gala on November 15th, where nearly 200 community members gathered to support this mission. His remarks noted the evening’s success in raising approximately $175,000 toward life-changing programming.
“I want to express my gratitude and extend my congratulations to Ron Hauenstein and everyone at the Spokane Fatherhood Initiative,” Congressman Baumgartner concluded. “Their dedication to building stronger fathers is building a stronger Spokane, and a brighter community for every child in our community.”
Honoring the entire community
This recognition honors more than seven years of organizational leadership. It acknowledges every father who’s shown up to class, every graduate who’s transformed his life, every volunteer who’s facilitated sessions, and every donor who’s invested in second chances.
It recognizes the 780+ fathers who’ve graduated from our programs with a 93% completion rate. It honors families reunited, children who have engaged parents, and communities strengthened one relationship at a time.
And it reminds us why Spokane—the birthplace of Father’s Day—continues leading the way in making engaged fatherhood a community priority.
Thank you, Congressman Baumgartner, for recognizing this work on the national stage. Thank you to our supporters, partners, volunteers, and most importantly, to the fathers who choose growth, commitment, and presence for their families.
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