COLUSA, CA (MPG) — The Colusa County Office of Education Children’s Services will host A Day for Dads on Nov. 15, an event highlighting the role of fathers and father figures in their children’s lives and in the community.
The free event will run from 9 a.m. to noon at the CCOE Education Village, 499 Margurite St. in Williams. It will feature a pancake breakfast, live music, storytelling, a book area, and skill-based games and activities. Families will also find booths with community resources and giveaways provided by local organizations.
Joseph Moye, Family Services Division Manager at CCOE Children’s Services, said the event is designed to educate fathers about the importance of being present and engaged.
“The primary goal is to educate fathers and father figures about the importance of being present and engaged in their children’s lives,” Moye said. “It also provides an opportunity for the dads of the household to be celebrated and recognized as a vital part of our community, and the safety and health of our youngest citizens.”
Organizers said the program is not limited to fathers alone. The event is open to entire families as well as individuals who serve in father-like roles, such as relatives, teachers, neighbors, and mentors.
“In media and stereotypes, men are often portrayed as the disciplinarians in family relationships,” Moye said. “Men are rarely the focus of parent conferences or asked their opinion in early childhood settings. New fathers need to hear that they are invited and should be involved in the school, attending teacher conferences, and other school events.”
Partners in the event include First 5 Colusa, the Local Planning Council, Literacy for All, and other organizations. Moye said participants are encouraged to bring activities that engage both children and parents, which supports the event’s focus on connection and shared experiences.
The event builds on past efforts to support fathers in the region. A similar program was hosted in Colusa County before the COVID-19 pandemic, and Northern California previously saw fatherhood conferences held in Red Bluff.
“We hope this will be the beginning of a reprisal of fatherhood events in Northern California,” Moye said.
Organizers plan to make A Day for Dads an annual gathering and expand by working with neighboring counties in future years.
“All are welcome to attend,” Moye said. “Bring your family and come have fun, because dads just want to have fun.”.