A Celebration of Fatherhood 2010

Fun, fun and more fun was the order of the day at the 6^th Annual Celebration of Fatherhood, held on Saturday June 12th at the Swing Zone in Kona. Fathers and their families were treated to this free event sponsored by Family Support Hawaii’s, Na Makuakane Maikai O Hawaii fatherhood program. Almost 200 participants enjoyed the event, an increase of 100% over last year. Activities included use of the batting cages, mini-golf, Tsunami water Slide, Slip-N-Slide, and a dunking-booth. (The line to get dunked was as long if not longer than the line to throw the ball at the target.) A gourmet chili and rice lunch was included as well as hotdogs and shaved-ice.

Ono kind Hawaiian music was provided throughout the day by Bruddha Matt and Pancho Man in the morning and Pomikai Brown in the afternoon. Several of the fathers did hula kahiko taught to them by Father Coach Larry Ursua. A wide variety prizes were handed out to the children and families. Fathers active in the program received certificates acknowledging their participation and support of a strong father role model.

For the first time in the six years of the Celebration of Fatherhood, Na Makuakane Maikai O Hawaii honored a woman, Joann Bishop-Freed, former Executive Director of Family Support Hawaii, for her on going support of the West Hawaii Fatherhood Initiative. A steering paddle was presented to Joann symbolizing her efforts in guiding and promoting positive resources for fathers.

Community partners Hui Malama Na Oiwi and The American Cancer Society provided informational displays and The West Hawaii Community Health Center conducted blood pressure and blood glucose checks.

Malama I Na Keiki provided important information to parents and children on illegal drug use and identification. Family Support Hawaii’s Early Head Start program shared information on the benefits of their 0-3 educational program with the public.

On Father’s Day a very special treat was provided by Fair Wind Cruises. Twenty free passes were gifted to the Fatherhood Initiative. Six fathers from the program and their families enjoyed a half day trip that left Keauhou Bay at 9:00am arriving at near Captian Cook’s monument an hour later. They were treated to breakfast and lunch, and use of all the snorkel gear. The highlight of course was the slide off of the deck into the clear waters of Kealakekua Bay. The fathers in attendance all agreed that having the opportunity of going on the cruise with their families made it the best Father’s Day so far.  

Click here to view photos of the event:

Fatherhood Celebration 2010

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