Communities, frequently with government and school assistance, can implement programs that help teenage and young adult males develop into caring and responsible fathers. This digest briefly describes program components shown to be most effective. Effective programs take account of ethnic differences and use culturally sensitive outreach strategies and curricula. Programs also need to tailor their curricula to the local socioeconomic climate. The goals and perspectives of effective programs acknowledge the importance of promoting the responsibilities of fatherhood. Community outreach is an essential component to target as many young fathers as possible. Helping fathers get as much education as possible is crucial, and including parenting education is also a program necessity. Career development and counseling play important roles in program success. Many schools have comprehensive programs for pregnant and parenting females, and school programs for fathers are often planned to help fathers complete a general education, learn parenting skills, and make career plans. (Contains 11 references.) (SLD)