About
The perception of individual health care needs and ideas on accessing health care from a male perspective has been little explored. Research has shown engaging with fathers can be productive when looking at helping maternal and newborn health.
Our Mission
Our mission is to engage with fathers and male caregivers, providing education and support to reduce Indiana’s infant mortality rate.
Our Vision
D.A.D works to decrease infant deaths in Indianapolis by:
1) Partnering with community organizations that engage with men to share information on how to prevent infant sleep-related deaths.
2) Working with the community to create events, such as Father-Focused Baby Showers, to engage in work sessions and conversations with men on how best to tackle infant mortality in their communities.
3) Explore differences in fathers' infant sleep-related behaviors to determine how best to create interactive experiences to decrease this rate.
D.A.D. works as the Dads Safe Sleep Workgroup for the Fetal Infant Mortality Review -Community Action Team(FIMR-CAT) of Marion County, under the Marion County Health Department
Meet Our Team
Dr. Levi Funches, Jr.
Dr. Levi is a neonatologist at Riley Hospital for Children and Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSOM), where he has been since 2016. He also currently serves as Associate Medical Director of the Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Hospital NICU. He received his medical degree from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He then completed his pediatric residency at Advocate Christ Medical Center Children’s Hospital in Oak Lawn, Illinois, where he served as chief resident.
Before coming to IUSOM, he served as a physician with the U.S. Army. During his military service, he completed his neonatal-perinatal medicine fellowship at St. Louis Children’s Hospital/Washington University (MO). He is currently involved in research on engaging with fathers on family health and in the community to address infant mortality and health disparities. He advocates for the importance of fatherhood and male caregivers to the overall environment for infants, children, and families.
Jamichael Fann
Jamichael serves as the Family Engagement Social Worker for the Marion County Public Health Department. Previously, he worked with WIC as a Clinic Assistant and Fatherhood Engagement Lead. In his current role, Jamichael is dedicated to supporting fathers by connecting them with essential community resources. His commitment to fatherhood development is demonstrated through his active facilitation of programs aimed at fostering positive paternal engagement.
Jamichael gained valuable experience as an intern at The Moorhead Community Resource Center and recently graduated from IUPUI. He is an alumnus of the Fathers and Families Center class #69, further solidifying his dedication to fatherhood and family development.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, Jamichael volunteered with multiple organizations around the Indianapolis community. He is a passionate advocate for those facing poverty through his involvement with Results Indy. As a mentor with SIMBA/SIMSA, Jamichael provides guidance and support to youth. His participation in the Nurturing Father's Program reflects his dedication to facilitating fatherhood development. Additionally, Jamichael is involved with B.M.G., the FIMR & Safe Sleep Work Group, and other organizations focused on addressing issues faced by infants, children, and men of color.
Jamichael's extensive volunteer work highlights his unwavering commitment to his community and his passion for making a positive impact.
Brian Carter, LBSW
Brian Carter is the Director of Dads Inc.(since 2011) a support program for men and their families. Dads Inc. He has been employed in various supervisory roles for 30 years. Brian currently serves as JAG Specialist with Eckerd Group Jobs for America's Graduates. Brian is the acting President of The Black Men’s Group, a board chair for Abundant Life Institute. Brian has been married to his wife, Gloria for 33 years and is the proud father of two adult sons. Brian’s passions are: serving the Indianapolis community at large and educating and comforting those in need.
Brian is the co-author of the IPATH What Would I Do curriculum on identifying healthy relationships with teens and young adults. Brian holds a bachelor degree of Social Work from IU. Brian also has a history of work in Juvenile Probation and detention.
Geneeka Brown
Geneeka Brown is a passionate public health professional dedicated to early childhood education and development, particularly in underserved communities. With expertise in grant management, crisis intervention, and community engagement, she has led initiatives that enhance family support, improve child health outcomes, and expand access to essential resources. Geneeka is committed to empowering families through education, literacy, developmental screenings, and advocacy, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Quincy Haynes
Quincy Haynes serves as a Coordinator at the Fathers and Families Center, where he plays a vital role in supporting the organization's mission to strengthen families and reduce the risks associated with Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). A proud graduate of the Fathers and Families program himself, Quincy brings both lived experience and genuine empathy to his work; connecting with new fathers, listening to their stories, and helping them navigate the challenges of fatherhood with confidence and care. Known for his warm presence and community-centered mindset, Quincy finds deep purpose in serving others and cherishes the opportunity to be a positive influence in the lives of families.
