This manual is intended to assist in the establishment, facilitation, leadership, and evaluation of support programs for fathers of children with disabilities. The manual begins with a foreword written by a father of a child with severe disabilities and a preface by the project director of the National Fathers' Network. An introductory chapter identifies common themes of fathers' programs (e.g., safety, camaraderie, and understanding); benefits of fathers' programs (e.g., discuss and practice the skills of caregiving); and suggestions for using the manual. The second chapter discusses patterns of family life, the father's role/reactions, and results of fathers' support programs (e.g., increased acceptance of the child). The third chapter addresses steps in starting such a group, including obtaining organizational sponsorship, recruiting fathers, determining costs, creative fund raising options, planning for child care, and locating meeting space. Principles of facilitation and leadership based on various leadership models (combinations of a professional and/or fathers facilitating the group) are covered next. Organizational activities (father/child activities, open discussion, educational opportunities, and social activities) are considered in the fifth chapter. Principles of individual and program evaluation are summarized, and the final chapter offers additional suggestions for supporting male involvement. Fifteen appendices provide sample publicity releases and forms, suggested activities, and evaluation guidelines. (Contains 21 references.) (DB)