Father’s Day is right around the corner. And there are so many fabulous men who are worthy of celebration. So, we’ve put together a list of ways to honor them this year.
Perhaps Dad isn’t any longer with you or isn’t the father you’d hope for. But, Father’s Day can still be a day of joy. You can simply celebrate the men in your life who have been steadfast, supportive and nurturing. Share with them how significant they are to you.
Showing Gratitude on Father’s Day
No matter our life’s situation we all have father figures, biologically related or not, who have been wonderful to us. These are the men who have watched out for you, advocated for your best interest, given love and support, taught you about life, offered forgiveness and a listening ear.
These men have played a special role in your life and contributed to who you are. As a result, they are worthy of being shown care and gratitude. This is particularly true on Father’s Day. So, how might you do this for them?
First, sincere gratitude, of course, and then gifts. There are several lists to read that outline the best gifts for Dad. But, what if instead of giving him another thing, you do something that will carry into the world the legacy he’s already created in your life?
Father’s Day Gifts That Keep On Giving
As I perused blogs and Pinterest boards to research for this post, I came across countless gift ideas for Dad. But, to be honest, many of them were either crafts that wouldn’t last in my house (I’m sorry, a necktie wreath? Neither my husband nor I want that on our front door) or gadgets that weren’t all that personal. If this has been your experience, too, have no fear.
There’s an alternative that’s neither cheesy nor impersonal. Give, in honor of your dad’s impact upon you, to an organization that is particularly meaningful to who he is or his role in your life. Not only does this show him his specific value, it also creates a ripple effect that carries his legacy to other children and families.
There are several organizations making a profound impact on fathers and children around the world. We gathered a few here and would love to hear what organizations you support for dads and their kids, too. Share in the comments section below.
Carry on His Legacy This Father’s Day
Fisher House Foundation builds comfort homes where military & veteran’s families can stay free of charge, while a loved one is in the hospital. These homes are located at military and VA medical centers around the world. Fisher Houses have up to 21 suites, with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen, laundry facilities, a warm dining room and an inviting living room. Since the beginning, the program has saved military and veteran’s families an estimated $407 million in out of pocket costs for lodging and transportation. Watch one family’s powerful Fisher House story here.
National At-Home Dad Network strives to empower fathers and champion a culture that recognizes them as capable and competent parents. The organization’s mission is to provide advocacy, community, education, and support to at-home dads. As a result, dads are better supported and equipped in their role as a primary at-home parent. This and organizations like it are changing the face of families. And it’s opening doors for fathers and mothers to serve their kids as they feel best suits their needs. Watch a feature on CBS News here. And check out their 2018 At-Home Dad Convention here.
National Fatherhood Initiative offers powerful educational resources to be used by community organizations, rehab programs, and prisons that work with ill-equipped fathers. Many of the facilities utilizing these resources serve men who grew up without a stable, loving father figure and fell into a life of addiction and/or crime. Without a father figure in their life, a child is 5 times more likely to commit suicide. Also, they’re 9 times more likely to drop out of school and 20 times more likely to be imprisoned. The National Fatherhood Initiative resources assist fathers to be present and engaged in their children’s lives. Watch stories of its impact here.
International Rescue Committee responds to some of the world’s worst crises, delivering aid that saves lives while paving the way for long-term recovery. It serves people whose lives have been upended by war, conflict and natural disasters in countries where support to recover from a crisis is unavailable. The organization responds within 72 hours, staying to help countries stabilize and people rebuild their lives. Additionally, it resettles refugees welcomed by the United States. IRC focuses particularly on caring for mothers and children. So, this could be a beautiful way to celebrate your father figure’s care for you and your family. Find a gift to give in honor of your father here.
Door of Hope aims to equip homeless families to rebuild their lives. Empowered by God’s love, families restore their lives, strengthen their communities, and break the cycles of homelessness and domestic violence. The Door of Hope program seeks to do this for every man, woman, and child it serves. The organization provides families with employment help, financial classes, counseling, children’s programs, housing opportunities and follow-up care. Read and watch stories of families impacted by Door of Hope.
We hope that these five organizations inspire you to share the gift your father is with other children and families. Have a beautiful time giving thanks to God for the men in your life who have loved and nurtured you. And don’t forget to share in the comments below how you’re celebrating Father’s Day this year.
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