Special Programs
A modern partner and resource page connecting fathers with trusted legal guidance, child services knowledge, financial education, mental health support, and family-focused advocacy.
Cathy M. Middleton, Esq.
Empowering Fathers With Legal Support and Knowledge
At Fatherhood Matters, we understand how difficult it can be for fathers to get reliable legal advice especially when facing issues like child support, child services, custody, visitation, or family court. Many fathers lose their cases simply because they cannot afford a lawyer or don’t know where to turn for help. That’s why we created a space where fathers can receive trusted legal guidance without the high cost. Through our group meetings, we provide access to real legal knowledge, real-life education, and practical support.
Cathy M. Middleton, Esq. is a veteran matrimonial and family law attorney with extensive experience handling paternity, child support, custody, visitation, orders of protection, and divorce matters. Her knowledge, advocacy, and public education efforts have made her a trusted voice for families seeking guidance and legal empowerment.
Sandra Graydon-Long, MSW
Retired Former Assistant Commissioner Division of Child Protection
I am currently retired from the Administration for Children’s Services where I was employed for 34 years in different positions. I have a Masters degree in Social Work, certification as a Life Coach, SIFFI Instructor, and certified in Caring For God’s People.
In my role as Assistant Commissioner I was able to mandate the staff to work with the Fatherhood Program if those fathers were involved in child welfare and also to provide wrap around services for those fathers. I also provide counseling with fathers around their mental health issues and guidance with child welfare, court, child support, and the criminal justice system.
Jahi Rose
Director of Public Engagement and Partnerships
Jahi Rose was born in Jamaica, NY and raised in East New York, Brooklyn. He attended York College and began contributing toward the betterment of the community through advocacy for safer streets, police accountability, and improved quality of life.
Jahi currently serves as Director of Public Engagement and Partnerships for the NYC Civilian Complaint Review Board. The CCRB's Outreach Team educates the public about police misconduct complaints, the Right to Know Act, and navigating police encounters.
Sunny N. Atkinson
Founder and CEO of TEAM Financial Planning and Teach Everyone About Money, LLC
Sunny N. Atkinson is a Certified Financial Planner™ and Founder and CEO of TEAM Financial Planning and Teach Everyone About Money, LLC. She created an online community to educate people to take control of their money and started her Investment Advisory firm to help individuals build and maintain wealth.
Through in-person and virtual seminars, Teach Everyone About Money provides fathers with accessible, judgment-free education on budgeting, credit, saving and retirement, investing, and estate planning. The goal is to remove fear and shame around money and replace it with clarity, confidence, and control.
Ingrid Berihuete, LMHC
Bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Hello, my name is Ingrid Berihuete, LMHC. I am a bilingual licensed mental health counselor. I have over 5 years practicing mental health therapy and counseling and over 8 years working in social services. My experience spans working closely with child protective services and the court system.
I return to Fatherhood fully licensed to provide services with the “If I Could” program pilot. I bring clinical expertise and professional experience, and I am passionate about building strong families and providing a safe space for participants.
Elina Lecour Attorney
Experienced Attorney in New York and New Jersey
Elina Lecour is a highly motivated, attentive attorney with decades of litigation experience in New York and New Jersey. Ms. Lecour graduated from St. John's University Cum Laude and received her Juris Doctorate from Brooklyn Law School.
Her services include civil litigation in Housing, Civil, and Supreme Court in the five boroughs of NYC, along with legal advice in landlord/tenant disputes, personal injury, business contracts/sales, and land disputes.
