It is estimated that over 70.1 million men become fathers every year (Source: Survey of Income and Program Participation 2008). Fathers do so much in our lives. They are truly special.

The History of Father’s Day

Father’s Day was inspired by Mother’s Day more than century ago by Sonora Dodd in Spokane, Washington. She came up with the special day after listening to a Mother’s Day sermon in 1909 and felt it was only right to also honor the great men in our lives. Her father, William Smart, was a Civil War veteran and widower who cared for Dodd and her five siblings. Because her dedicated father was born in June, the mayor of Spokane proclaimed it the month to celebrate.

President Lyndon Johnson gave the first proclamation to honor fathers as the third Sunday in June; however it wasn’t signed into permanent law and recognized as a federal holiday until President Richard Nixon gave the executive order in 1972.

Recognizing the Men in Our Lives

At MVD Express, we realize the importance that men have had on our community. Organizations such as Boys to Men Albuquerque and projects like the Alpha Project provide education and mentoring services for young males. They help motivate these young men to make decisions about their goals and values; they educate them on fatherhood and the role of males in relationships and promote dignity and independence among brothers. Being a father is more than being a “dad.” It is recognizing a valuable role in the lives of children, adults and the community around us. Take the time to thank the men in your life that have helped make a positive difference!