Image of one of Avivo's transitional recovery lodging housing units.

Avivo is supporting fathers

Avivo serves more than 10,000 individuals each year; helping them achieve recovery, find housing stability, and achieve employment and economic advancement.

Avivo is HERE. We work to end Homelessness. We provide Education and training. We support Recovery and mental health. We prepare people for Employment and success.

Program was started in 2025

Avivo launches program supporting single fathers in their recovery

“We see so much success with our families being able to have supportive, safe housing and stable housing,” shares Kristen Bewley, service area director for chemical health at Avivo. “That’s what we hope for our fathers too.”

A new program at Avivo is supporting single fathers in their recovery journey, thanks to a grant which supports the program through 2028.

In addition to providing treatment and recovery services for fathers, Avivo will also add new cultural programming to their existing Intensive Outpatient Program. Programming will include culturally enriching groups and activities with the support of Ujima Healing and Consulting, as well as training and supervision to support cultural development for staff.

Avivo launches new program supporting single fathers in their recovery
Photo of a bed in Avivo's Tranisional Recovery Lodging.

“Being with my daughter is probably the greatest thing that’s happened to me.”

LaFern credits Dakota County and Avivo with helping fast-forward his transition from homelessness and unemployment to a more stable, positive, life situation. He’s proud of the work he’s put in to support his daughter and restart his life. He can’t imagine doing it without her. Read LaFern’s story

Image showing Emmanuel, a successful employment services participant at Avivo.

“Avivo is unique, I would say, because they have a diverse staff. A new arrival [to America] can easily talk to staff, which gives them hope… hope that things can turn out much better in the future.”

When Emmanuel moved to the United States from Rwanda in 2019, he wanted nothing more than a bright future for his wife and daughters. He partnered with Avivo and other nonprofits to achieve his dreams. Read Emmanuel’s story

Avivo recognized with award for strengthening families during National Child Abuse Prevention Month

Avivo recognized by FamilyWise for strengthening families

“Our community partners across the state are pivotal to our prevention work,” said Ann Gaasch, Chief Executive Officer of FamilyWise Services. “By partnering with collaborative efforts, together we can build supportive communities for Minnesota families. The Pinwheels for Prevention Awards honor organizations for their work with families and their contributions to the wellbeing of Minnesota children.”

Avivo is honored to be named one of seven statewide recipients of FamilyWise Services’ 2026 Pinwheels for Prevention Award, a recognition aligned with National Child Abuse Prevention Month each April. The award highlights organizations that demonstrate a strong commitment to building safe, healthy, and supportive environments for children and families across Minnesota.

Avivo recognized by FamilyWise for strengthening families
Father and son fishing
Make a gift to support Avivo and support fathers in Avivo's programs

How you can help

Your tax-deductible donation will help us end homelessness, support recovery and mental health, and prepare people for employment and career success. Thank you for making a gift to Avivo to help make a lasting difference in the lives of the individuals and families we serve.


 

Avivo is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Avivo