FATHERHOOD

INITIATIVES

The Third District hosted their 1st Annual Father’s Day Celebration Event on June 15, 2021, as part of the week-long initiative by the IHQ Fatherhood Initiatives and Mentoring Committee (FIMC). The 1 hour and 30-minute event included over 40 short videos from Brothers in 21 different chapters throughout the Third District speaking on the importance of fatherhood, the meaning of fatherhood, and the necessity of supporting, promoting, and growing strong fathers.

The Third District FIMC spotlighted Brother. Johnnie Underwood of Zeta Mu Mu Chapter of Williamsburg, Virginia. Brother Underwood discussed his father’s role in his life from being adopted and given the love of a father, which he has passed on to his two daughters. His remarkable story was featured on the June 20, 2021 IHQ Father’s Day Program & Celebration. Brother Johnnie Underwood & Family

Kappa Iota Iota (KII), Newport News Virginia | The Young Men of Distinction (YMOD) mentoring program mentors students from kindergarten through 12th grade in Newport News. YMOD has 53 young men in the program, and they meet every two weeks with Brothers in KII. YMOD focuses on Academics, Integrity, Discipline, and Uplift. Attention is given to these principles through social activities, youth conferences, and community services projects.

Psi Alpha Alpha, Fairfax Virginia | The Fatherhood Initiative Committee of the Psi Alpha Alpha (PsiAA) chapter collaborated with the Father Engagement Unit of Fairfax

Young Men of Distinction | Kappa Iota Iota | Newport News Virginia | June 2021 County Department of Family Services to execute another successful facilitation of the County’s Dad’s Parenting Program in the Spring of 2021. From February to April of 2021, the Brothers of PsiAA provided direction and insight on what it means to be a man and a father. Additionally, they expounded on their varied experiences as fathers. In total, ten fathers graduated from the 13-session virtual program. To supplement the financial burden caused by the pandemic, PsiAA donated gift cards totaling $500 to the participating fathers to provide support for some basic necessities such as food, gas, infant care, or anything else they may need in support of their families. The Dad’s Parenting program serves to enhance fathers’ overall parenting and fathering skills. Also, the Dad’s Parenting program promotes and celebrates the importance of fathers in Fairfax County. The Chapter’s involvement has helped increase Fairfax County DFS’ capacity to meet the needs of fathers in Fairfax County, as well as educate fathers about the critical roles they play in the lives of their children.