The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
DADS CELEBRATED
Fatherhood Initiative connects fathers with children
Fathers, father-figures and positive role models enjoying time with their children is the goal of the Lorain Metropolitan Housing Authority, El Centro and the Boys and Girls Club of Lorain County during the 2017 Fatherhood Initiative.
The three groups held an annual Father’s Day Celebration June 17 at Southside Gardens, 3010 Vine Avenue in Lorain.
Fatherhood Initiative was started by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide resources to help men support their families and encourage fathers to be involved in the lives of their children, which help build bonds, teamwork and enhance life skills.
Homer Vivden, Director of the Lorain Metropolitan Housing Authority, said the event is about acknowledging fathers and bringing families closer.
“We really want to recognize fathers in what they do while bringing families together to have fun and enjoy food,” he said.
The day also brought on food, Snow Cones, Jungle Bob’s Animal Show, Gallagher’s Strolling 8-year-old Allen Worthy enjoys a pony ride at the Lorain Metropolitan Housing Authority, El Centro and the Boys and Girls Club of Lorain County 2017 Fatherhood Initiative June 17.
Magic, Pony rides, face painting, Sheriff Child ID, giveaways and community resource information for families.
The event was filled with different agencies including LCCC, Mercy Hospital, Ohio Means Jobs, United Way and more.
“It gives fathers a chance to enjoy their children, but also time to get information that will enable them to help their families,” Vivden said.
It gives children a sense of normalcy, he said.
“It’s an event that is open to the public and I think it helps children to feel normal, because they are just having fun with their fathers,” Vivden said.