News Release

HHS and the White House Fatherhood Initiative honors local DC fathers

Twelve local Washington, D.C. fathers will be honored on Tuesday, December 13, 2011 by the White House and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for their dedication and positive presence in their families and communities. This roundtable is a part of the president’s Fatherhood and Mentoring Initiative and the “Year of Strong Fathers, Strong Families” that President Obama announced in June 2011.  These fathers are everyday heroes who are strengthening their families and their communities.

“As a father myself, I am looking forward to joining with so many inspiring fathers to talk about the great opportunities and challenges confronting dads. We know how integral fathers are to the success of their children, and we also know the great value active and caring fathers bring to their community and this nation. This event will be a great opportunity to lift up the importance of fathers,” said Michael Strautmanis, counselor for strategic engagement to the senior advisor.

Executive Director of the White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, Joshua DuBois noted, “This event will be a continuation of the president’s initiative to encourage healthy families and highlight the importance of active fatherhood. Responsible fatherhood is an issue very dear to the president because of his love for his wife and daughters, and his passionate belief that fathers must step up to the plate--these 12 dads are doing just that.”

This fatherhood roundtable is the first in a series of local fatherhood events around the country, and a part of the president’s Fatherhood and Mentoring Initiative which is is a national effort to address responsible fatherhood and healthy families in America through partnerships with family-serving groups and mentorship groups around the country. The initiative serves as call to action for cities and states, with individuals and organizations across the country to raise awareness about responsible fatherhood and working to re-engage absent fathers with their families. For more info visit www.fatherhood.gov.

The roundtable is closed press; however, local fathers will be available for interviews. Members of the media who wish to interview any of the fathers should email Jesus.Garcia@acf.hhs.gov.

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Last revised: December 13, 2011