Honoring My Favorite Guy on Father’s Day

While Mother’s Day often gets top billing over Father’s Day, for me the day has always been very special because I believe that I had the best father anyone could ever have.   My dad, James Gamble, exemplified what it meant to be a true father.  He retired from career in the printing field while I was still in elementary school.  So I had the pleasure of coming home every day and finding my dad there waiting with a home-cooked meal.  As my mom continued to work, he took on the day-to-day caregiving and household responsibilities for me and my siblings.  Trust me; this change in roles did not at all diminish who he was as a man.  Still strong, head of the household, but the best caregiver anyone could ask for.  The relationship that he developed with his children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, neighbors and friends was unparalleled.  We often called our home Grand Central Station because everyone knew that if they needed a hot meal, or a listening ear, he was there for them.

The Family Center is honored to work with men who are partnering with us to help bring additional support to their children and their families.  Men who are not afraid or ashamed to say they need help.  I am glad that The Family Center is there to offer support and encouragement as these men tackle the hardest job there is, caring for children, helping them to mature into responsible, caring adults.

On this Father’s Day, I salute the fathers who are actively involved in raising their children.  A special hats off to the men, brothers, uncles, Godfathers, friends, who step up to care for children, who may not be biologically related to them, but who nonetheless are actively involved in these children’s lives.  Thank you for all of the support, guidance, and nurturing provided to the children whose lives you are enhancing.

So on this Father’s Day, I acknowledge the man who raised me and the many men who are standing tall, making a difference in the lives of children.  Thank you for your dedication and commitment.

Happy Father’s Day

-Ivy Gamble Cobb, Executive Director