MEDIA RELEASE

The Fatherhood Initiative, a program of Family Support Services of West Hawaii, will be celebrating its fifth year in an event on Saturday June 27th. The mission of the Fatherhood program is “to support men in developing and applying the Fathering Skills needed to be a positive influence to their children”.

With Father’s Day just around the corner, now is a good time to reflect on the importance of Fathers in a child’s life. The involvement of a father in the life of a child is important – babies show increased social and physical development when fathers or other nurturing men are consistently involved in raising them; babies can have increased intelligence, confidence and independence when they are nurtured by mothers, fathers, and other men; babies are less frightened by strangers and show less stress and anxiety when father and mothers cuddle and whisper gently to them; and Dad’s who are comfortable showing love contribute to a healthier society.

By creating a stable home environment in which fathers feel good about themselves, have a nurturing relationship with their baby and are supportive to mom, we can change the health and well being of our children. The Fatherhood program addresses these issues by teaching dads how to care for their baby (basic health, safety, nutrition and emotional needs); by learning various methods to help baby develop, play and learn; by practicing how to set limits, encourage independence and use positive parenting techniques, and on strengthening the father and mother relationship.

To celebrate the 5th year of the program, a celebration will be held on Saturday June 27th at the Swing Zone in Kailua-Kona. Mayor Billy Kenoi will join with others in a program to honor our Dads. A special award will be given to an individual who has consistently supported the Fatherhood Initiative. Following the speakers, there will be an opportunity for dads (and moms) to experience the value of play time with their children. The event is free and lunch will be provided.

For further information on the Fatherhood Initiative, please contact either Larry Ursua at 334-4153 or Kauila Ho at 334-4180.