FAQ
Good questions.
Who can join?
Fathers and other male caregivers raising children of any age with disabilities, neurodivergence, chronic conditions, or additional support needs. Biological, adoptive, foster and stepfathers, grandfathers and guardians belong here.
Can I come alone?
Absolutely. Find the table of dads and look for the Dadvocates sign. Pull up a chair and say hello.
Do I need a diagnosis or an IEP?
No. You don’t need a diagnosis, an IEP, a 504 plan, public-school enrollment, or a school-aged child.
Does it cost anything?
Joining is free. Our goal is free meetups; you pay for any food or drinks you choose. Any future activity with a cost will say so before you RSVP.
Do I have to drink?
No. Drinking is optional. We choose venues with non-alcoholic options and list what’s available on the event page.
What happens at a meetup?
A host welcomes you and helps you meet a few people. We hang out, catch up, and talk about whatever’s on our minds. Most meetups run around 90 minutes to two hours. Stay for a while or head out when you need to.
Can dads of adult children join?
Yes. Fatherhood and caregiving don’t end at 18. Fathers of adults are part of this community.
Are two-dad families welcome?
Absolutely. Two-dad families, single dads, blended families, and every family structure are welcome. There’s room for your family here.
Is this therapy, legal advice, or medical advice?
Dadvocates is a peer community. People can share their own experiences, but we don’t provide therapy, diagnosis, medical care, or legal advice.
Is this connected to a school district?
Dadvocates began through relationships formed in Leander ISD parent advocacy. It is now an independent Greater Austin community, not a school district or SPPAC program.
Can I bring my child?
Our core meetups are for adults so caregivers can have time to connect. We don’t provide childcare. Each event page will clearly say who can attend and any venue age restrictions.
How do I ask about access?
Use the contact form and choose Access question. Tell us what would help you participate. You don’t need to share a diagnosis. We’ll confirm what we can arrange before the event.
Didn’t see yours? Ask us
You don’t have to have it figured out.