Over 100 years ago, while listening to a Mother’s Day sermon, Sonora Louis Smart Dodd wondered why there was no similar holiday for fathers. One of six children, Dodd’s father was a single father and she felt he and others deserved to be honored. After securing support from ministers in Spokane, Wash., her idea came to fruition with the first Father's Day celebration at the Spokane YMCA on June 19, 1910. Many years passed before the day became a national holiday, but today we use the day to honor the fathers and father figures in our lives.
On Sunday, June 17, the YMCA of Central Florida joins the nation in celebrating Father’s Day and recognizing the influence fathers and adult male role models have in children’s lives. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 24 million—or one in three—children live without their biological fathers. Societal factors such as unemployment, work-life balance or a lack of resources can affect a father’s ability to seek support in strengthening his parenting skills and becoming more engaged in the lives of his children. The Y, a leading nonprofit in fostering positive youth development, is dedicated to providing both resources and opportunities for fathers to further involve themselves in the well-being and development of their children.
“On Father’s Day, we celebrate dads and all male adult role models as we recognize how important it is for children to grow up with men who are committed, responsible and involved,” said Dan Saginario, Vice President of Brand & Cause Advocacy, YMCA of Central Florida. “Dads need support to be the best parents and caregivers they can be, and this holiday helps to remind us of that.”
The YMCA of Central Florida offers parent/child programs and volunteer opportunities at many of our locations. Check with your local Y for more information.