The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) recognized June as Fatherhood Engagement Month with a slate of in-person events and a statewide bingo game designed to encourage father-child bonding and celebrate the role fathers and father figures play in strengthening Virginia families.  

In partnership with the Fatherhood Foundation of Virginia, Fairfax County DSS, and DePaul Community Resources, we hosted five fatherhood-focused events across the Commonwealth throughout June. The events were designed to create accessible pathways for fathers to build memorable moments with their children. Hundreds of fathers from across the state brought their families to these events to enjoy free entry to fun activities and receive helpful parenting information uniquely geared to fatherhood. 

Statewide Events and Fatherhood Bingo Challenge 

To encourage attendance and increase active family engagement, we also launched a statewide bingo game. Bingo cards were filled with activities fathers could complete with their children. Fathers were asked to bring their completed cards to their in-person event to be entered into a raffle to win $250 and a Father’s Day gift bag. 

The celebration kicked off on Father’s Day weekend with an ice cream social at The Conery in Draper. It continued across the Commonwealth with a Fathers and Families Day and free entry to museums at the Center in the Square of Roanoke, the Tri-City Chili Peppers Father's Day Celebration in Colonial Heights, and Family Fun Day at a community park and pool in Alexandria. Our final event took place on the last weekend in June at the Children's Museum of Virginia in Portsmouth. Each event offered a unique experience while sharing a common goal: bringing families together, fostering meaningful connections, and celebrating the impact of engaged fathers.  

Why Father Engagement Matters  

Since 1960, the number of U.S. single fathers with minor children has risen from 300,000 to 2.6 million. This increase requires an intentional shift in how we support the varying dynamics of a family and enhance their individual and collective well-being.  

Research consistently shows that active father involvement strengthens children, families, and communities. Children who feel a closeness to their father are twice as likely to enter college or find stable employment after high school, 75% less likely to have a teen birth, 80% less likely to spend time in jail, and half as likely to experience many symptoms of depression.  

“This month was about partnership, presence, and the lasting impact caring adults have on children’s futures,” said Traci Jones, assistant director of Family Services. “Our employees and community partners work alongside fathers every day through family services, child support, and workforce programs. Fatherhood Engagement Month is our chance to thank them and encourage them to see us as another tool of support in their parenting journey.”  

VDSS is committed to inclusive family support practices that recognize the value every parent and caregiver brings to a child’s life. Visit our Fatherhood Engagement portal to find year-round local, state and national fatherhood resources.  

Fatherhood Engagement Portal

Take a look at some of the families that attended the events across the region.