About the Founder
Sara Carvajal is the founder of Distinguished Fathers, a nonprofit organization driven by her unwavering belief in the power of presence. Inspired by the challenges many fathers face in staying engaged in their children’s lives, Sara created this platform to offer resources, advocacy, and encouragement to men who strive to be present and purposeful.
With a background in community leadership, case management, and business development, she built Distinguished Fathers to fill a gap — to support fathers not just with words, but with real tools: legal connections, grants, mentorship, and personal development.
Under her leadership, the organization continues to grow through charitable events, outreach programs, and partnerships that uplift fathers and strengthen families.
Sara’s mission is simple yet powerful: empower fathers so they can change generations.
Promise of Presence Grant
Empowering Fathers to Lead with Purpose
Purpose:
The Promise of Presence Grant is designed to support fathers who are committed to being active, responsible, and positive figures in their children’s lives. This grant provides financial assistance to help fathers overcome barriers that prevent them from being present—whether legal, emotional, or economic.
Grant Amount:
Up to $500 in direct support (subject to review and availability of funds)
Eligible Uses:
Parenting classes or fatherhood workshops
Transportation assistance for visitation, court, or counseling
Clothing, hygiene, or essential needs for parental presence
Fees for legal filings or mediation services
GED classes or employment readiness programs
Eligibility Criteria:
Must be a father or legal guardian
Must show intent and effort to engage with child(ren)
Must complete the Promise of Presence pledge
Must provide valid ID and proof of parental relationship
Must demonstrate a financial need or current hardship
Required Documents:
Completed application form
Valid government-issued ID
Proof of fatherhood (birth certificate, custody order, or court paperwork)
Explanation of how the grant will help support your involvement
Review Timeline:
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. You will be notified within 14 business days of submission.
Note: This grant is limited to one award per household per 12-month period
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The big day may have come and gone, but keep in touch as we’re always up to something new and exciting.
Promise of Presence Grant
Empowering Fathers to Lead with Purpose
Purpose:
The Promise of Presence Grant is designed to support fathers who are committed to being active, responsible, and positive figures in their children’s lives. This grant provides financial assistance to help fathers overcome barriers that prevent them from being present—whether legal, emotional, or economic.
Grant Amount:
Up to $500 in direct support (subject to review and availability of funds)
Eligible Uses:
Parenting classes or fatherhood workshops
Transportation assistance for visitation, court, or counseling
Clothing, hygiene, or essential needs for parental presence
Fees for legal filings or mediation services
GED classes or employment readiness programs
Eligibility Criteria:
Must be a father or legal guardian
Must show intent and effort to engage with child(ren)
Must complete the Promise of Presence pledge
Must provide valid ID and proof of parental relationship
Must demonstrate a financial need or current hardship
Required Documents:
Completed application form
Valid government-issued ID
Proof of fatherhood (birth certificate, custody order, or court paperwork)
Explanation of how the grant will help support your involvement
Review Timeline:
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. You will be notified within 14 business days of submission.
Note: This grant is limited to one award per household per 12-month period.
Bridging Fathers to Trusted Legal Support
At Distinguished Fathers, we understand that many fathers face legal barriers that impact their ability to be present in their children’s lives. That’s why we offer Legal Advice Connection Services — a resource to help connect fathers with licensed legal professionals and community partners who can assist with:
Child custody and parenting time
Child support modifications
Visitation enforcement
Establishing paternity
Court navigation and documentation support
These services are not legal representation provided by our organization, but rather a trusted referral network of attorneys, legal aid agencies, and court-friendly services who specialize in family law and fatherhood rights.
How It Works:
1. Complete our Legal Assistance Interest Form (within your application or online)
2. Our team reviews your situation and needs
3. You’ll be connected with a local attorney, legal clinic, or resource center based on availability and area of law
Eligibility: Open to all fathers engaged in our programs or grant applicants.
Cost: Free referral service. Some providers may offer sliding scale fees, payment plans, or pro bono assistance.
Our community is full of people who want to help. We work to help the people providing services with the people who need them. Come connect with people in new ways.