Merced County, CA

28/06/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 29/06/2024 00:30

Merced County's All Dads Matter Program Recognized at State Capitol

Merced County's "All Dads Matter" program was recognized at the State Capitol on Monday by Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria for its groundbreaking work in promoting the importance of fatherhood and providing fathers with the tools to support healthy children, families, and communities.

Soria invited Merced County to the Assembly Floor to be recognized after she toured and learned about the All Dads Matter program in March.

"Everyone recognizes the importance of motherhood, and it's easy to understand why-a loving mother is a cornerstone for a growing child," Assemblywoman Soria said. "But we need to understand that the involvement of a father figure is also important. Traditionally, we have provided wraparound services for mothers, and now with All Dads Matter, we're better equipping fathers with those same tools to be more involved with their children."

Merced County Board of Supervisors Vice-Chairman Josh Pedrozo, who was at the Capitol for the recognition, said All Dads Matter is one of the most powerful and impactful programs that he's seen come out of local government.

"Statistics show how important it is for fathers to be involved with their families," Pedrozo said. "Our employees who run this program found innovate ways of making that engagement happen. All Dads Matter is paying dividends to the community now, and will be well into the future. We sincerely appreciate Assemblywoman Soria for recognizing the significance of this program."

Director Yvonnia Brown of the Merced County Human Services Agency (HSA), which developed the program, said All Dads Matter is a resource that she hopes can serve as a model for others and credits its success to her dedicated team of professionals who provide direct support to fathers in our community.

"On behalf of the HSA team, we are honored to receive this recognition for the County's dedication and commitment to the fathers and families in our community," Brown said.

The Merced County All Dads Matter program began in 2004 and includes sub-programs such as Boot Camp for New Dads, Men's Support Group, Male Engagement Activities, and others. These efforts are aimed at supporting healthy children, families, and communities.

To learn more about All Dads Matter, you can visitwww.alldadsmattermerced.org.