Because Every Child Deserves a Dad
Meet Derek Carter, Founder & CEO of Intentional Dad™
Derek Carter is the visionary leader and founder of Intentional Dad™, a ministry dedicated to helping fathers become more intentional, connected, and engaged with their children.
As a father of five, Derek believes that fathers have an important role to play in the lives of their children — whether those children are young, grown, living at home, or living across the country. His work is rooted in a simple conviction:
Being a father is more than a title. It is a relationship that requires intention.
More Than 30 Years of Serving Families
For more than thirty years, Derek has worked with families in crisis and developed a deep understanding of the challenges fathers and families face.
He currently serves as the Director of the Strong Fathers Program at Forestdale, where he helps fathers strengthen their relationships and connect with their children.
Prior to joining Forestdale, Derek spent thirty years working with families in crisis in New York City. He worked in several areas, including the Family Preservation Program. He also served as a representative in the Brooklyn Fatherhood Coalition and the Speaker's Bureau.
A Voice for Fathers and Families
Derek is active in both the national and local homeschooling community. He previously served as a regional representative for Homeschool New York, where he worked with support groups and helped implement policies to increase awareness of homeschooling.
He also serves on the Board of Trustees of Sandy Cove Ministries and has served as Committee Chairperson of Governance.
Education & Leadership
Dr. Carter, PhD, has done undergraduate and graduate study in urban policy and social services. is completing his dissertation in Fathering. He will soon graduate from Yeshiva University.
He is also an ordained minister and serves in his local church, where he spearheads the marriage ministry and teaches classes.
Derek is the co-founder of Foundations for Family Success, a ministry dedicated to helping families establish strong legacies and develop practical communication skills.
Author & Creator
Derek is the author of several books, including Having a Presence in His Absence: A Guide for Intentional Fathering.
He has also co-authored a marriage journaling series and created the Dead Space Question card game — resources designed to help people start meaningful conversations and strengthen their relationships.
Fatherhood Is Personal
For Derek, intentional fatherhood isn't simply a professional focus. It's something he lives. He believes fathers should strive to connect with their children intentionally, both young and old, and create relationships that continue to grow through every stage of life.
Outside of his work and ministry, Derek enjoys spending time with his wife, children, friends, and an assortment of household pets. He enjoys bicycling, reading, jogging, and holding onto the hope that one day he'll beat his young sons at one-on-one basketball.
His Philosophy
Derek's work comes back to one simple idea:
Being a father is more than a title. It's a relationship that requires intention.
Through Intentional Dad™, he continues to equip fathers to strengthen their relationships, create meaningful traditions, plan for their families, and leave a legacy that lasts beyond them.