EMPOWERING | eQUIPPING | eMBRACING

Father absence affects millions of children across the country. In fact, 17.6 million* kids—nearly 1 in 4—grow up without a biological, step, or adoptive father at home. This experience can shape a girl’s emotional, mental, and financial well-being in lasting ways.

Research* shows that children in father-absent homes are more likely to experience:

• Poverty

• Behavioral or emotional challenges

• Teen pregnancy

• Abuse or neglect

• Drug or alcohol use

• Challenges with school engagement or dropping out

• Obesity

• Jail due to behaviors

These statistics don’t define a girl’s future — but they do highlight why support, guidance, and community matter. At From Fatherless to Fearless®, we walk alongside girls experiencing father absence, helping them rewrite their stories with confidence, healing, and hope.

*Research provided by: Fatherhood.org

What makes From Fatherless to Fearless unique?

With our comprehensive, evidence-informed approach and specialized focus, From Fatherless to Fearless is uniquely positioned to address the needs and benefits of fatherless girls. We understand the profound impact that fatherlessness can have on girls, including emotional distress, decreased self-perception, and challenges in forming healthy relationships. Our signature program and innovative events provide a safe space for girls to share their experiences, learn coping strategies, and embrace community. Research has shown that group interventions enhance self-worth and emotional resilience among youth, making this a cornerstone of our organization’s approach.

We also recognize the importance of strengthening family bonds between mothers and daughters. Through carefully designed events, we facilitate improved communication, trust, and mutual support, enhancing relational satisfaction, individual self-esteem, and mental health. From Fatherless to Fearless also benefits from a team of dedicated professionals with firsthand fatherlessness experience. By combining personal experience with professional expertise, we ensure our programs resonate deeply with the girls we serve.

As we continue to grow, our mission remains focused on empowering fatherless girls to break cycles of trauma and build brighter futures.

Intentionally Serving the Community

Mission Statement

To empower and equip girls with strained or absent father relationships on their journey to healing and wholeness.

Vision Statement

To become fatherless women’s most trusted resource.

Target

We predominately serve teen girls ages 13-18 (and some young women) and their families; however, we focus on the underserved community. Whether their father has walked away, passed away, is in jail, or is emotionally unavailable living in the same house, our core is to serve fatherless girls.

States Served

Ohio (Expanding)

Core Pillars

Mental, Emotional, and Financial Health

Press and Media Coverage

From Fatherless to Fearless has been recognized by a variety of respected media outlets for its impactful work supporting teen girls. Click on an icon below to read each news story.

Our History

From Fatherless to Fearless was founded in 2016 by Candice Crear, who chose to transform her pain into a greater purpose. At two years old, Candice experienced the profound impact of her father walking out of her life. After enduring years of rejection, anger, and depression, she made a life-changing decision to heal. This multi-award-winning international best-selling author is dedicated to leading fatherless women from adversity to wholeness. Initially focused on offering programs to adult women, the organization quickly gained recognition for its impactful work. By 2021, Candice expanded From Fatherless to Fearless to include adolescent girls and young women ages 13 to 21. Committed to increasing mental, emotional, and financial wellness, the organization addresses the root causes of adversity.

Today, From Fatherless to Fearless is a respected nonprofit that provides essential support to children and their families. In 2023, the organization increased its revenue fivefold and expanded the number of people served from 50 to 250. Through its unwavering commitment to transforming lives, From Fatherless to Fearless continues to inspire resilience and hope in the communities it serves.

Meet the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer