[spacer size=”10″]
The Umatilla-Morrow County Head Start on Tuesday hosted an event just for dads, grandpas, uncles, older brothers and all male role models who play a role in a child’s life.
Rocky Heights Elementary School opened up their auditorium for all the events, activities and dinner that was served. The agency served a total of 45 “dudes” and 59 children.
“We were able to positively impact a total of 104 lives in one evening”, said Jonny Badillo, Family Advocate and co-organizer of this this. “I just want to extend my gratitude for all the people and establishments that made A Day for Dudes a huge success. Thank you for helping promote and encourage parents to take part in this event.”
“A Day for Dudes” was a full night of wood building activities with tools, several donated from Smitty’s Ace Hardware and the wooden tool boxes and plane supplies donated by Home Depot. Dickey’s BBQ, Kennewick, provided dinner. Every child that attended this fantastic event was given a book and one entry into our bike raffle.
“A Day for Dudes” originated with ideas shared by UMCHS Family Advocates who were trying to get additional male role models to play a bigger role in the lives of their children. Thinking of what dads, uncles, and grandparents would like to do with their children led to this fun event where they can build something together.
“While hammering in nails they would open the gate to spending time together, communication, and building trust,” said Badillo.
“Dads, and all male caregivers, are immensely important! Father figures everywhere have the opportunity to leave a huge impact in their child’s life,” Erin Richards, Family Education and Support Director. “Studies have shown that children whose “dad” was highly involved in their school were 43 percent more likely to receive A’s. These same children were also more willing to take healthy risks. Now that is making a difference in our children’s lives.”
This was a kick off to what will begin a series of workshops and opportunities for male role models and caregivers. Starting on April 4, both children and male caregivers can attend a series of Nurturing Fathers workshops. UMCHS will provide several more opportunities for them to support their children through the ever so fun years of learning and developing.
For more information, contact Jonny Badillo, Family Advocate at 541-564-6878 or go to the UMCHS.org website and click on the little red wagon for all the parent opportunities available.
[spacer size=”15″]
