What does it take to truly engage fathers? In this episode of Dadvocating, Troy Grant shares his remarkable journey from growing up with New York State child welfare and juvenile justice system involvement to leading New York's statewide fatherhood efforts at the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). He reflects on the father figures who shaped his life, why fathers are too often overlooked by service systems, and how his experience as a licensed mental health clinician inspired him to champion father engagement. Troy discusses the lessons he learned in the Marine Corps, the importance of mentorship, challenging stereotypes about dads, building natural supports that strengthen families and communities, and creating lasting systems change. He also shares practical parenting wisdom, thoughts on self-care and Father's Day, and a few personal interests outside of work. It's an honest, inspiring conversation about why fathers matter—and how simply showing up can change lives.
What is autistic
masking & unmasking?
Tuesday 30th June
Pacific 1pm- Eastern 4pm - UK 9pm
I also want to share a piece I recently wrote for Autism Spectrum News, honoring dads, dovavcating and fathers day. If it resonates, please consider sharing it in your networks:
Supporting New York Families: Jewish Autism Network Partners with IDDO
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In the early part of the 21st century, when life felt simpler, I wrote a book that brought together years of geeky enthusiasm and thoughtful reflection, Up, Up and Oy Vey! Recently, I’ve come to see my fascination with masks as deeply connected to neurodivergence and advocacy.
My latest article, "Up, Up, and Aware: What Superman Can Teach Us About Mental Health," explores the lessons Superman offers—the man has returned, and we need him more than ever.
Here's a snapshot of me at Family Empowerment Day in Albany, advocating for inclusive policies and support for families across New York State.
Our Story
We’re a Brooklyn-based couple on a mission to make our community a more comfortable place for Autistic individuals and their families.
Together, we founded the Jewish Autism Network, a global shtetl where you can kvell and kvetch with people who get it!
Pics:
Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York State
Ambassador Deborah Lipstadt, Special Envoy to Monitor & Combat Anti Semitism
Attending Governor Kathy Hochul's Rosh Hashanah gathering at the Center for Jewish History on September 19th. Among the many initiatives highlighted was a commitment to recognizing the unique issues surrounding Jewish Americans’ Mental health.
The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) created the Spotlight on Jewish Americans Campaign to provide resources to develop a webinar to the existing equity series that will preface cultural and religious considerations, address antisemitism and its effects, and provide best-practice approaches in the provision of behavioral health services for this community.
Over the last year, we’ve embarked on a series of advocacy trips to Albany. Our mission? To meet political figures and engage in discussions about developmental disabilities legislation.
We had the incredible opportunity to voice our concerns, share personal stories, and advocate for change. Working towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all is an empowering experience!
Pics:
Angelo Santabarbara, Assemblyman & Dadvocate
John W. Mannion, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Disabilities
Rebecca Seawright, Chair of the Assembly Committee on Disabilities
Simcha Eichenstein, Assemblyman
Kerri Neifeld, Commissioner of the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD)
Shelley Mayer, Chair of the Senate Committee on Education
We provide a warm, independent, nonjudgmental place to connect, community outreach, and practical support for Autistic self-advocates.
We're neither establishment nor experts: we’re families, and we’re stronger together.
