Wouldn't it be wonderful if parents were handed a parenting handbook as they walked away from the hospital with their newborn in their arms? A guide that would outline how to manage anything that might come their way, one where parents could flip through the table of contents, find the right page, and instantly know how to manage whatever challenge they faced. As appealing as that idea sounds, we all know parenting is not that simple. It comes with ups and downs, moments of joy and frustration, heartache, and fulfillment, and no two parenting journeys are ever alike.
While Carroll County may not have a one-size-fits-all parenting handbook, it does have a valuable resource designed to support families through life's challenges: Dads Works and Moms Works.
A PROGRAM BUILT ON PURPOSE
Founded in October 2000, Dads Works began as a program of the Human Services Programs of Carroll County (HSP). In 2010, it became its own 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization under the name Power Praise Ministries, doing business as Dads Works. Recognizing the need to provide similar support for mothers, Moms Works was established in 2016, modeled after the Dads Works program.
David Berry has served as the director of Dads Works since its inception, with his wife, Diane, overseeing Moms Works. Over the years, David has witnessed firsthand the impact these programs have had on thousands of men and their families. "If one family has been blessed and improved, it is worth all my energies in this work," David shares.
HELPING FAMILIES OVERCOME BARRIERS
The vision behind Dads Works and Moms Works is to help parents overcome barriers to successful and responsible parenting. Through weekly meetings, the programs provide a safe and confidential space for clients to talk openly about their lives. The program offers three eight-week sessions, general parenting, anger management, and communication/relationship skills, and upon completion receive a letter and a Certificate of Completion.
At the heart of both programs is a commitment to healing struggling families. Many participants face challenges such as divorce or separation, situations where conflict between parents can unintentionally place children in the middle. Dads Works and Moms Works encourage parents to focus on healthy coparenting, so children are not raised in environments marked by constant tension. "We hope to end the cycle of neglect, violence, and abandonment," David adds. "l see it as an opportunity to help families and children by bringing some measure of healing to a broken home or relationship."
VOICES OF HOPE AND HEALING
The following testimonials, shared by David, reflect the real-life impact of Dads Works and Moms Works:
Alice (real name withheld) came to Moms Works because her family was falling apart and she wanted help. She completed the Parenting series and began implementing the lessons she was taught. She encouraged her husband to enroll in Dads Works, which he did. The conflicts in their home were resolved and marriage was saved. This family of five is thriving as they implement the many lessons they learned in Dads Works and Moms Works.
A father enrolled in Dads Works because his anger was destroying his family. He successfully completed the Anger Management series, where he learned how his anger was negatively affecting his sons. Recently, David ran into one of the boys and asked how things were going at home. The response said it all: "My dad is my hero."
David also recently encountered a Dads Works graduate while Christmas shopping. The man shared that he and his wife were doing well and that he had been sober for ten years. Nearly divorced due to addiction, this family, including their five children, is now thriving.
SUPPORT WITHOUT FINANCIAL BARRIERS
Dads Works and Moms Works are free programs for any clients. While donations are welcomed and appreciated, no parent is ever turned away due to inability to pay. Tax-deductible financial gifts help offset operational expenses and ensure the programs remain accessible to those who need them most.
Additional information can be found on their website at www.dadsworks.org.
THE POWER OF VOLUNTEERS AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Throughout the year, Dads Works and Moms Works host several fundraisers to support their mission. This June marks the thirteenth annual Daddy Daughter Dance, an event open to the public as well as program participants. Designed to foster meaningful connections, the evening gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to bond and create lasting memories in a fun, welcoming environment. The event features a DJ, dancing, food, door prizes, raffle baskets, and a photo booth.
In September 2025, the organization also hosted its first Family Fun Day, welcoming families for an afternoon of outdoor fun with games, activities, and a relaxed picnic style atmosphere.
Volunteers play a vital role in making these events successful. Opportunities include assisting at the Daddy Daughter Dance and Family Fun Day, collecting door prizes and raffle items, securing sponsors, and promoting events. In addition, Dads Works and Moms Works assist with parking and traffic direction at five events each year at the Union Mills Homestead, where volunteers are always needed. Dads Works and Moms Works also support families in need during Christmas, Thanksgiving, and back-to-school seasons through various donation drives.
David reflects on the broader impact of the programs, saying, "l believe in the vision of helping fathers be great dads as a solid foundation to build healthy homes. I believe if we can change and improve a family, this will change and improve our county, state, and country. Like a single stone cast into a pond will create concentric circles going forth to the whole lake."
Dads Works and Moms Works are deeply grateful for the individuals and organizations that have supported their mission over the years. Their work would not be possible without the generosity and involvement of the Carroll County community.
UPCOMING EVENTS IN 2026
• Saturday, June 6 - 13th Annual Daddy Daughter Dance, 6-9 p.m.
• Saturday, September 5 - Family Fun Day, 3-6 pm.
• Five car-parking events at Union Mills Homestead (May, July, August, September, and November; hours vary).
Anyone interested in volunteering may contact Dads Works at 443-605-6358.
Programs like Dads Works and Moms Works are a priceless gem within our community. Parenting is never easy, especially when conflict arises, and too often children become unintended victims of those struggles. Having a safe place where parents can gain insight, learn practical skills, and connect with others facing similar challenges is a meaningful first step toward healing and building healthier family dynamics. Dads Works and Moms Works provide that support and more. For parents seeking guidance in general parenting, anger management, or communication and relationship skills, this organization offers a compassionate and impactful path forward.
