Gordon Philanthropies hosts its second annual Dr. Seuss Celebration filled with family fun in collaboration with Project Fatherhood at the Children’s Institute.

Children and their dads enjoyed a fun-filled evening overflowing with Dr. Seuss books later gifted to attendees to add to their at-home library as part of the Communities That Read Together Grow Together program. From Lorax stuffed animals, to the Cat in the Hat’s iconic striped hats, families were able to dive into the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss. The extravaganza included a special appearance from the Cat in the Hat pushing the kids over the moon!

The evening was made possible thanks to a collaboration with Children’s Institute’s Project Fatherhood, a program dedicated to empower dads to build stronger relationships with their children through parenting workshops and other related services. Sylvia Beanes, Executive Director for Gordon Philanthropies, shared, ” This event 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.”

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). More over, unfortunate circumstances such as 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.

Dedicated to strengthen parent-child relationships through the power of reading, Gordon Philantheopies is honored to have collaborated with Project Fatherhook as they endeavor break down barriers and support fathers.

“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.”