Gordon Philanthropies, in partnership with Project Fatherhood and Children’s Institute, hosted the second annual Dr. Seuss Event.
The children and their dads enjoyed a fun-filled evening with Dr. Seuss books provided as gifts for the children’s home libraries, Lorax stuffed animals, and Dr. Seuss hats to get the kids and dads into character. We even had a special appearance from the Cat in the Hat to push the kids over the moon! The evening was a testament to the great work that Project Fatherhood continues to do day in and day out to support dads by providing the tools and space for dads to be actively involved in their children’s lives.
There have been many disturbing publications and books that ask where fathers are and why dads are not in the picture. Unfortunately, many reports will confirm that incarceration, lack of financial means, and many other isms, such as racism and classism, play a role in why some brown and Black fathers struggle to emotionally connect with their children. Studies suggest that children with involved fathers are significantly more likely to do well in school (The Strength of a Father’s Love, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families Office of Family Assistance). This is why GP feels honored to support the great work that Project Fatherhood does to break down barriers for dads and to confirm that they matter. Dads most certainly are important in the lives of their kids.
Many of the children at the event are also part of the Communities That Read Together, Grow Together reading program. The young people in this reading program receive eight free books of their own choosing every four months. It is important for the foundation’s work that we have an ongoing relationship with our families by helping them build their home libraries and support the educational growth of children.
Gordon Philanthropies is honored to work and support the incredible staff from Children’s Institute and the lifechanging work that you provide for our communities to thrive. “There were many heartwarming moments for me,” said Sylvia Beanes, executive director, “but what touched my heart was seeing little hands softly caressing the faces of the fathers. There were looks of joy in the eyes of the children and dads as they worked on their art projects. To witness this kind of fatherly love is the greatest blessing to experience.”