Stay informed with the latest updates and stories from SpoFI. Explore impactful articles, success stories, and key insights into fatherhood and family life in Spokane. Visit our newsroom for inspiration and community highlights.

One Heart Two Homes Co-Parenting Classes

Raising children in two homes can be a very difficult experience for everyone. We acknowledge that all parties involved are struggling through one of the most painful experiences of their lives. Our goal is to lessen the hostility and increase the teamwork between parents by honoring each circumstance, educating in a non-judgmental way, and providing information that will help bridge the gap between two homes.

Darrel Startin
Darrel is a retired addictions counselor and former owner of a state certified treatment agency. He now volunteers his time doing outreach for his church and serves several local ministries including SpoFI (Spokane Fatherhood Initiative).

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Jul 18
Join SpoFI Alumni and Families at Spokane Indians Family Feast Night

SpoFI is hosting another Alumni event with the Spokane Indians! We’ll have a reserved section above 1st base for all our dads, their families & guests.

Lawrence Jay Long
Proud father of two awesome boys, nature enthusiast, tech enthusiast, tinkerer, runner, and friend. I am dedicated to empowering men to realize their potential and lead meaningful lives. I share SpoFI’s practices and work diligently, striving to encourage and model the lessons taught here.

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Jul 17
Discover the 7 Secrets of Effective Fathers – Class Starts July 17!

Discover the 7 Secrets of Effective Fathers in our 7-week course starting July 17. Learn research-backed strategies to become the father your children need. Register now!

Lawrence Jay Long
Proud father of two awesome boys, nature enthusiast, tech enthusiast, tinkerer, runner, and friend. I am dedicated to empowering men to realize their potential and lead meaningful lives. I share SpoFI’s practices and work diligently, striving to encourage and model the lessons taught here.

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Jul 11
Riding the Rapids of Change: Dads AF’s Journey to Health & Brotherhood

Explore Dads AF’s transformative rafting adventure, symbolizing their journey to fitness and friendship. Discover how these fathers are building a supportive community while embracing healthier lifestyles and stronger family bonds.

Jennifer Loree Byrd
Jennifer L. Byrd, a valued contributor to SpoFI. Jennifer is a mother, donor, volunteer, and veteran educator who brings her unique perspective and dedication to our organization. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jen for her multifaceted contributions to SpoFI, which have a profound impact on our community.

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Jun 27
Dads AF: Fatherhood Through Fitness, Community, and Service

Discover how Dads AF is transforming fatherhood through fitness, community building, and service. Learn about their journey from fitness classes to a supportive brotherhood, culminating in a healthier Father’s Day celebration that’s inspiring families and communities.

Jennifer Loree Byrd
Jennifer L. Byrd, a valued contributor to SpoFI. Jennifer is a mother, donor, volunteer, and veteran educator who brings her unique perspective and dedication to our organization. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jen for her multifaceted contributions to SpoFI, which have a profound impact on our community.

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Jun 27
SpoFI’s Wild West 4th of July Weekend: Family Camping Adventure

Saddle up for a unique 4th of July weekend! Join fellow SpoFI alumni and their families for a camping adventure on a 100-acre property near Rocks of Sharon. Experience the great outdoors with an Old West twist – sleep in cabins modeled after historic Western buildings. Enjoy nature, family time, and community in this one-of-a-kind setting. Limited spots available – register now!

Lawrence Jay Long
Proud father of two awesome boys, nature enthusiast, tech enthusiast, tinkerer, runner, and friend. I am dedicated to empowering men to realize their potential and lead meaningful lives. I share SpoFI’s practices and work diligently, striving to encourage and model the lessons taught here.

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Jul 2
SpoFI’s amazing donors give over $81,000 to support fathers and families

Help us bridge the gap! SpoFI’s Fatherhood Building Campaign surpassed its $70,000 goal, reaching $81,341.50, but we still need $3,858.50 to cover an unexpected revenue shortfall. Support fathers and Families!

Ron Hauenstein
Ron is a semi-retired life insurance agent. He was raised in Reardan, WA and began his life insurance career in Fairbanks, Alaska. He and his wife Becky have two grown children. Ron and Becky attend Victory Faith Fellowship in the Spokane Valley and have lived in Spokane since 1993.

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Jun 20
Announcing the 2024 SpoFI Fathers of the Year Recipients

Celebrate the inspiring journeys of Jim Uttke and Donald Morrison, the 2024 SpoFI Fathers of the Year. Discover their remarkable transformations and dedication to their families and communities. Read their inspiring stories of faith, perseverance, and second chances.

Lawrence Jay Long
Proud father of two awesome boys, nature enthusiast, tech enthusiast, tinkerer, runner, and friend. I am dedicated to empowering men to realize their potential and lead meaningful lives. I share SpoFI’s practices and work diligently, striving to encourage and model the lessons taught here.

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Jun 19
Celebrating Fatherhood and Building Generational Wealth: A Father’s Day Tribute

As Father’s Day approaches, we reflect on the vital role fathers play in building generational emotional wealth. Sue Lani Madsen’s recent column in the Spokesman Review celebrates the impactful work of the Spokane Fatherhood Initiative (SpoFI) and emphasizes the importance of committed fatherhood in our community.

Lawrence Jay Long
Proud father of two awesome boys, nature enthusiast, tech enthusiast, tinkerer, runner, and friend. I am dedicated to empowering men to realize their potential and lead meaningful lives. I share SpoFI’s practices and work diligently, striving to encourage and model the lessons taught here.

Updated

Jun 14
SpoFI Father’s Day Celebration 2024 & Fathers of the Year Presentation

Join us for the SpoFI Father’s Day Celebration 2024, celebrating dads and families with food, games, and the Fathers of the Year presentation. Register now to help us plan for this special event at Liberty Park Pavilion on Sunday, June 16th, 12 PM – 3 PM.

Lawrence Jay Long
Proud father of two awesome boys, nature enthusiast, tech enthusiast, tinkerer, runner, and friend. I am dedicated to empowering men to realize their potential and lead meaningful lives. I share SpoFI’s practices and work diligently, striving to encourage and model the lessons taught here.

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Jun 18
SpoFI Fathers Rally at 2024 Fatherhood Summit: A Weekend of Connection, Learning, and Inspiration

Last weekend, several SpoFI “Dad2Dad” Alumni and “24/7 Dad” Grads embarked on a whirlwind road trip to Tacoma, WA, for the 2024 Fatherhood Summit. Joined by SPOFI President Ron Hauenstein, the group participated in inspiring sessions, networked with fathering organizations, and celebrated SpoFI’s mission. Highlights included the popularity of the “Dad2Dad” Varsity/Letterman Jackets, an expert panel of dads sharing their journeys, and an awards ceremony recognizing James Tidwell’s achievements. The event fostered new connections, offered valuable resources, and culminated in a celebratory sushi dinner, making the experience unforgettable for all.

Benjamin B. Bado

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Jun 10
James Tidwell Nomination for WA Fatherhood Council “Celebrate Dads’ Award

James Tidwell received the WA Fatherhood Council “Celebrate Dads” Award on June 7, 2024, one of only four honored. After overcoming homelessness, addiction, and jail, he reunited with his children in 2021. His dedication earned him Co-Father of the Year in 2022. James’s commitment to his kids makes him a true role model.

Ron Hauenstein
Ron is a semi-retired life insurance agent. He was raised in Reardan, WA and began his life insurance career in Fairbanks, Alaska. He and his wife Becky have two grown children. Ron and Becky attend Victory Faith Fellowship in the Spokane Valley and have lived in Spokane since 1993.

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Jun 11
Donations at 110% of Goal, But a Funding Gap Remains

🌟 Dear Friends of SpoFI, 🌟 Thanks to the incredible generosity of our supporters, our Fatherhood Building Campaign has reached 110% of its $70,000 goal!…

Ron Hauenstein
Ron is a semi-retired life insurance agent. He was raised in Reardan, WA and began his life insurance career in Fairbanks, Alaska. He and his wife Becky have two grown children. Ron and Becky attend Victory Faith Fellowship in the Spokane Valley and have lived in Spokane since 1993.

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Jun 10
Fatherhood Building: Equipping Dads to Build a Stronger Spokane

Spokane Fatherhood Initiative (SpoFI) is launching the Fatherhood Building campaign to raise $70,000 by Father’s Day 2024. This campaign will support crucial fatherhood and relationship training programs, helping dads develop essential character traits to build strong, positive relationships with their children. By equipping fathers, SpoFI aims to foster a healthier community and more productive workforce in Spokane. Discover inspiring success stories and learn how your contributions can make a lasting impact on families and the community.

Ron Hauenstein
Ron is a semi-retired life insurance agent. He was raised in Reardan, WA and began his life insurance career in Fairbanks, Alaska. He and his wife Becky have two grown children. Ron and Becky attend Victory Faith Fellowship in the Spokane Valley and have lived in Spokane since 1993.

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Jun 20
Father’s Day Picnic 2024 Alumni Volunteer Sign-up

This year, SpoFI Alumni like you are stepping up to take charge of one of our biggest and most cherished events: the Father’s Day Picnic. We’d be honored to have you join us!

Lawrence Jay Long
Proud father of two awesome boys, nature enthusiast, tech enthusiast, tinkerer, runner, and friend. I am dedicated to empowering men to realize their potential and lead meaningful lives. I share SpoFI’s practices and work diligently, striving to encourage and model the lessons taught here.

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Jun 18
SpoFI Awarded $45,000 DCYF Grant for Fatherhood Programs to Reduce Child Abuse and Neglect

We are pleased to announce that SpoFI has been awarded a $45,000 competitive grant from the Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF). Our proposal was ranked in the top 15% out of 27 statewide applications, with only four being funded.

Ron Hauenstein
Ron is a semi-retired life insurance agent. He was raised in Reardan, WA and began his life insurance career in Fairbanks, Alaska. He and his wife Becky have two grown children. Ron and Becky attend Victory Faith Fellowship in the Spokane Valley and have lived in Spokane since 1993.

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May 29
Join SpoFI Alumni and Families at Spokane Indians Family Feast Night

SpoFI is hosting another Alumni event with the Spokane Indians! We’ll have a reserved section above 1st base for all our dads, their families & guests.

Lawrence Jay Long
Proud father of two awesome boys, nature enthusiast, tech enthusiast, tinkerer, runner, and friend. I am dedicated to empowering men to realize their potential and lead meaningful lives. I share SpoFI’s practices and work diligently, striving to encourage and model the lessons taught here.

Updated

Jun 3
Weekend Activities with SpoFI’s “Dads About Fitness” (Dads AF) Foster Community and Wellness

In the scenic switchbacks leading down to the Little Spokane River today, a group of dads dedicated to healthy parenting and habits came together to hike. United by their commitment to personal growth and family well-being, these dads—SpoFI alumni and part of the Dads About Fitness (Dads AF) program—ventured into Waikiki Springs for a day of exploration and camaraderie.

Jennifer Loree Byrd
Jennifer L. Byrd, a valued contributor to SpoFI. Jennifer is a mother, donor, volunteer, and veteran educator who brings her unique perspective and dedication to our organization. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jen for her multifaceted contributions to SpoFI, which have a profound impact on our community.

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May 21
Thriving Dads are Good for Business

Spokane Fatherhood Initiative helps men become better dads, who also become better employees. Committed, dedicated fathers who are connected to their families make good employees. Responsible Fatherhood programs, like those offered by SpoFI, not only improve fathers’ economic prospects but also foster valuable social connections and support networks. This comprehensive approach enhances fathers’ stability, dependability, and longevity as employees, presenting a strong case for business sponsorship.

Ron Hauenstein
Ron is a semi-retired life insurance agent. He was raised in Reardan, WA and began his life insurance career in Fairbanks, Alaska. He and his wife Becky have two grown children. Ron and Becky attend Victory Faith Fellowship in the Spokane Valley and have lived in Spokane since 1993.

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May 23
We’re Excited for the Launch of “Dads About Fitness” (Dads AF)

Tonight we launched “Dads About Fitness” (Dads AF) at the Spokane Fatherhood Initiative (SpoFI). This program is a heartfelt addition to our array of father-focused initiatives designed to foster better health, stronger familial relationships, and a supportive community network. Here’s why I am particularly thrilled about this initiative:

Lawrence Jay Long
Proud father of two awesome boys, nature enthusiast, tech enthusiast, tinkerer, runner, and friend. I am dedicated to empowering men to realize their potential and lead meaningful lives. I share SpoFI’s practices and work diligently, striving to encourage and model the lessons taught here.

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May 21
Introducing “Dads About Fitness” (DadsAF)

Are you a SpoFI dad looking to improve your health and wellbeing on multiple levels? DadsAF might be the next level-up for you. This unique six-week program is designed for dads who are committed to transforming their lives physically, mentally, and spiritually. Don’t let the playful nickname fool you—this program is all about serious commitment and becoming the fittest dad you can be.

Lawrence Jay Long
Proud father of two awesome boys, nature enthusiast, tech enthusiast, tinkerer, runner, and friend. I am dedicated to empowering men to realize their potential and lead meaningful lives. I share SpoFI’s practices and work diligently, striving to encourage and model the lessons taught here.

Updated

Jun 25

SpoFI News