Strong Fathers, Strong Families

So this is fun.

Like millions of dads across our country, President Obama has said that being a father is the “most important job he has.”  From coaching basketball to helping with homework, the President cherishes the time he gets to spend with his two girls, even when life gets busy.

Today at a screening of the movie Cars 2 for military fathers and families, President Obama is kicking off something called the year of Strong Fathers, Strong Families as part of his Fatherhood and Mentoring Initiative. It’s an effort with partners from around the nation to create simple opportunities for dads and kids to connect. Whether it’s a free game of bowling, a Major League Baseball or WNBA game, a visit to the zoo or aquarium, or discounts for dads and kids through partners like Groupon and LivingSocial, we’re excited to help create small moments that can have a big impact.  You can sign up for updates and find more in the coming days on www.fatherhood.gov.

Military fathers and families listen as President Barack Obama stops by a screening of the movie "Cars 2" in the South Court Auditorium of the White House, June 15, 2011. The President talked about the year of "Strong Fathers, Strong Families" as part of his Fatherhood and Mentoring Initiative. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

President Obama wrote about growing up without his own dad in his life – and millions of kids in America experience the same. According to the U.S. Census, almost one out of every three children in our country grow up without their father. And when dads are not around to support, families and children can be impacted as a result.

For years, the President has worked with dads from around the country to do something about fatherlessness, from supporting local fatherhood programs to encouraging personal responsibility.  We’re thrilled to advance this work through the year of Strong Fathers, Strong Families. Remember to sign the President’s fatherhood pledge and stay updated at www.fatherhood.gov.

Michael Strautmanis is Counselor in the Office of Public Engagement and a proud father of three.