Dad & Me

Research shows that without a doubt, fathers are an integral part of their sons' healthy emotional,

physical, and cognitive growth from their first moments of life. Boys whose fathers love them and can

demonstrate that love in consistent, caring ways have fewer problems later in life with peers, academics,

and delinquent behavior.

Redeem Detroit has designed an exemplary program for Fathers/ (Father Figures) and Sons that help to

answer these four questions:

1. "Does my son know that he matters to me?" The primary way that dads can help their boys understand that they matter is by making them a priority over the myriad demands that life throws at us. It is critical that dads make it clear to their sons that they are a priority, that our most important investment is in them and that all the other "stuff" gets only the leftovers.
2. "Does my son know that I love him?" Nurturing means a lot of things. It certainly includes hugging and kissing our boys—yes, even boys need hugs and kisses—on a daily basis and telling them that we love them.
3. "Does my son know that what he does is important to me?" A son wants to know that the way he is living his life—his interests, schoolwork, hobbies and passions—is pleasing to his father. And, as a good dad, it is critical for a father to guide his son into the right actions and help him live a life centered on serving others. 
4. "Does my son know how proud I am of him?" This boils down to a son's innate need to be affirmed by his father. Your affirmation prepares your son to enter the world with the confidence and "emotional armor" that he needs in order not just to survive, but to thrive. 

Activities Include:

• Fathers and sons will move their "Man Caves” outside and enjoy bonding festivities, including kickball, potato sack racing, dump tank, and many other games.
• A Cultural Experience – A day well spent in the Detroit Cultural Center; Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History; Detroit Institute of Art; Detroit Science Center; Detroit Historical Museum.