DOSA is an Oklahoma based nonprofit that is building a community for dads,
with a son or daughter of any age that has mental, physical, or medical challenges.
with a son or daughter of any age that has mental, physical, or medical challenges.
Mark your calendars and watch for details soon for this years DOSA Gather Men's Conference hosted in Oklahoma. This is an all day event with tools and resources to help you on your journey as a dad on special assignment.
DaysDays
HrsHours
MinsMinutes
SecsSeconds
Dads On Special Assignment (DOSA) was founded by a dad that has a child with special needs for other dads with similar life experiences. Our founder, Jeremy, is a husband and a dad to six sons with his second oldest son having many health challenges from birth. This has given him a unique perspective on what men think and question when faced with this life, and the needs that come with that reality.
PURPOSE
• Dads On Special Assignment is a men’s ministry dedicated to the health and well-being of dads that have a son or daughter with a mental, physical, or medical challenge often defined as special needs.
MISSION
• To serve dads of children with special needs by providing tools and resources that equip them to become healthier mentally, physically, and spiritually in order to lead their families well and embrace their role as a dad on special assignment.
VISION
• To see every dad on special assignment within our sphere of influence find hope, healing, and purpose.
"Friends, I got to participate in a group of dads with kiddos with special needs this weekend. It was so hard but so good to be with them and each share our stories. So much pain in so little time, but so much hope in such a Good God! I'm thankful." - Justin
"I'm very thankful for each of you and for Jeremy's leadership in putting this great group together. Lots to be thankful for this year." - Austin
"I am really impressed with the leadership in fostering transparency and community in such a short time. God is definitely showing up! I was able to take quite a bit away so I look forward to continuing to come." - John
"This ministries dedication to bringing men together who are learning how to be the best father, husband, and servant leader when God gifts us with a unique child is inspirational.” - Bill
Below are some of the top questions we receive. If you have a question please email us at jw@dosausa.org.
We believe this is up to each dad to personally determine if he feels he would benefit from such a group. Special needs covers a wide range of definitions, whether it be continuous medical, therapeutic services, or physical/mental health challenges. Many diagnosis can have a wide spectrum within them as well, so even if your story may not seem as severe as other cases, there are many things to be gleaned and learned from other dads who are facing similar circumstances to yours.
We are continually working with individuals, churches, and other organizations to form new groups as the need arises. Send us an email or call to see If there is one close to you to join. If not, we can discuss options for you to get connected.
There are a multitude of men, women, and families that are not prepared to accept the reality of their situation. Suggesting a group that embraces the term special needs can certainly be offensive to some. Our philosophy is that if you feel a prompting to make mention of it, you should, and it can certainly be done in a loving, suggestive manner. Men are notoriously known for being stubborn and deep down have a fear of what they will hear and how it may be in direct conflict with what they are choosing to believe. Whether they show it or not, your interest in seeing them seek help may be the very thing they needed.
The short answer, yes. We have men of all ages involved with Dads On Special Assignment. Here's why. No matter your age, they are still your children, and you are still their dad. They need you and you need them. The incredible reality of having older men as a part of this ministry is because we get to see the generational impact and mentorship that can happen when younger men get to hear from older men who have "already been down that road." And, likewise, hearing from some of the younger men of where they are can be a great reminder to others on what we all face at some point in our lives and provide a loving reminder of why this all matters so much. You never age out of being a dad on special assignment!
We know that there are many men who may not be the biological dad to an individual, but still serve in that capacity. Whether it be by foster or adoption, or you are simply an uncle, neighbor, friend, or any other scenario, you are fulfilling an in important role in their life. We remind men that if you are serving as the father figure to a son or daughter, then you are essentially a dad on special assignment, whether it is temporary or they see you as dad or not. The answer, yes. Join the many other step-in dads on special assignment.