Telegram - Serving Metropolitan Detroit Since 1944

Detroit knows how to celebrate fathers on Father's Day Weekend. From Friday to Sunday, many families honored the men in their lives with dinner, gifts, and some decided to attend church service together. Across the city, there were brunches, parties, mixers and BBQs dedicated to the amazing men we call fathers, uncles, nephews and grandfathers.

One organization in Southeast Michigan, held its Inaugural Father's Day BBQ and Health Circuit. It was a free event that included games, a bounce house for the kids, a health circuit for the men, food and fun for all. Defined by Fatherhood is a community-based organization, whose mission is dedicated to cultivating community relations by empowering fathers across Metro Detroit.

This event brought out married couples, single mothers and fathers, men and women of all ages and most importantly the children. Held at Miles Park in Livonia, as you drove up to the park, you could see the children playing and running, the grill bellowing smoke and you could hear laughter in the air. It was a wonderful sight to see, the children and their fathers having a great time together. The love and joy between a father and his children could be felt all throughout the day, the energy level was amazing.

The health component of this event included participation by The Detroit Young Black Physicians. Dr. Nicholas Fletcher, a member of the (YBP) attended with his wife and children. Defined by Fatherhood wanted to cultivate an atmosphere where fathers would feel comfortable speaking with a healthcare professional. According to a study by the Cleveland Clinic, 60 percent of men don't see a doctor routinely. It's only when something becomes serious that they will follow through with medical attention. This event had something for everyone.

Clifton: What was the reason behind this event? Why did you decide to make it?

George McCollum, Founder: To put emphasis on Father's Day to bring more validation to men as Fathers. Typically, what I have seen over the years, is that Fathers feel as though they aren't acknowledged and these men don't feel validated.

Clifton: As the Founder of this organization, how did you feel about your first inaugural event?

George McCollum, Founder: It was an overwhelming feeling and experience, to see the true emotions of those men that we were able to touch. This event was specifically for those men to be celebrated.

Clifton: What are your goals for this event in the future?

George McCollum, Founder: In the future, as founder, I would like to partner with multiple organizations whose main focus and mission is to touch the lives of fathers and father figures. I think it would be great to join together as men, to create a successful event that can become a city-wide joint celebration.

Defined by Fatherhood, is currently raising money to continue its efforts in sponsoring more events throughout the community. If you or your organization would like to partner or donate to Defined by Fatherhood, visit their website at http://www.definedbyfatherhood.com. There you will find the Partner with Us and Donate section. If you would like to email this organization, email them at [email protected].