▼ This study was a qualitative investigation of the perceptions of Black males reared in absent father families regarding the experiences which contributed to success in their lives. The purpose of the study was to discover, understand, and describe the circumstances that contributed to the successful lives of Black males living in absent father families. Also, it was to develop a deeper understanding of those experiences that have helped to offset the negative effects of fatherlessness on adolescents. Success was visualized as a process of personal growth. Eight Black males who were all participants of the Toledo Excel Program at the University of Toledo were individually interviewed in depth on two occasions. They also met in a focus group at the conclusion of the interviews. After their verbatim transcripts were analyzed, six themes emerged which were presented and discussed at the group meeting. The results obtained were that the participants attributed their success to faith in God, their mothers, grandmothers, other extended family, friends, and the Toledo Excel Program. They felt God made it all possible for them to become successful men today. They characterized their mothers as hardworking, self-sacrificing, providing for their needs, and paying for them to attend private schools. They characterized their grandmothers, other extended family, and friends as providing child caring, child rearing, finances, emotional support, and advice. The TOLEDO EXCEL Program, a scholarship incentive program, provided them with tutoring, classes, and trips throughout the United States, Mexico, and Africa. As a result of the fathers’ absence, there was economic deprivation, which was closely linked with difficult times. All of the participants felt that children need both the mother and father in the home to rear children. They plan to “be there” in the home for their own children. Recommendations are given for programs focusing on the reduction of poverty, increased involvement of the father in the child’s life, and increased communication between the mother and father. Implications for community and social work programs are outlined. Additional qualitative research with Black males is recommended. Advisors/Committee Members: Edwards, Mary Ellen.