POINT PLEASANT — In the formative years of a child’s life, it may seem easier for some mothers to spend time and bond with their children more than their fathers, and for local dads who may be struggling to find this is true will have an opportunity to make a change.

Beginning on Thursday, September 6, Mountain State Healthy Families will be starting a local chapter of “All Pro Dad’s Day” at the Point Pleasant Presbyterian Church located at the corner of 8th and Main Street. Lasting from 6:30 a.m. until 7:30 a.m., the group will meet on the first Thursday of every month to provide dads and their children the opportunity to eat breakfast before the kids go off to school, as well as participate in other bonding activities and discuss other family related topics.

Dennis Smith with Mountain State Healthy Families explained why the group was coming to Mason County, saying there are several programs and opportunities for mothers to spend time with their children, but so much for dads. Smith also stated there are often a few stereotypes surrounding fathers, such as being tied up with other things such as sports, but “All Pro Dad’s Day” is to show how important fathers are to their children and the role models they can be.

“We just felt like it was a program needed here in the county,” Smith said. “It’s an opportunity for dads to sit down with their children and visit with other dads and learn from each other.”

In addition to serving breakfast, Smith mentioned that dads will be able to discuss other family topics with their children and other fathers in order to bond with their children and strengthen their relationship. Smith also stated that the children aren’t the only ones who could benefit from this program. Since the program is open for fathers, and grandfathers, of all ages, the shared experiences among the fathers attending could also be a source of inspiration or advice for each other.

Smith also said dads involved could also seek other resources on the All Pro Dad’s website, www.allprodad.com, such as daily email encouragements called the “Play of the Day.”

It was reported that All Pro Dad’s Day is a branch of Family First, a non-profit organization based in Tampa, Fla., which began with the help of former Indianapolis Colts coach Tony Dungy.

“All Pro Dad’s Day is a simple idea with a profound impact,” said Brian Deming, Director of School Programs for Family First. “It will transform the lives of the families who participate.”

Following the meeting on Thursday, Sept. 6, the next meeting will be Thursday, Oct. 4. Smith also added that while making a reservation to attend “All Pro Dad’s Day” is not required, it is preferred in order to allow an accurate number of fathers and children to prepare for.

For more information, or to make a reservation, contact Smith at 304-857-0020, ext. 103.