Background:
Chairman, research has demonstrated that even from birth, children who have an involved father are more likely to be emotionally secure and, as they grow older, have better social connections. Research further reveals that an active and nurturing style of fathering is associated with better verbal skills and intellectual functioning in children.

We are fortunate in Fairfax County to have Healthy Families Fairfax, the Head Start Policy Council, and the Fairfax County Department of Family Services Father Engagement and Parenting Education programs. In collaboration with Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services, these efforts help fathers gain parenting skills and economic self-sufficiency.

Motion:
Therefore, I move that the Board of Supervisors proclaim June 2021 as Fatherhood Awareness Month in Fairfax County to raise public awareness of the importance of fatherhood and the importance of a father’s engagement with his children and family.