We can all agree that Fathers play a vital role in the lives and development of our children. Unfortunately, we live in a time when many children grow up in fatherless homes in our country. Here are some disturbing statistics from the U.S. Department of Justice about the negative effects of a child without a father:

• Suicide – 63 percent of youth suicides

• Runaways – 90 percent of all homeless and runaway youth

• Behavioral disorders – 85 percent of all children that exhibit behavioral disorders

• High school dropouts – 71 percent of all high school dropouts

• Juvenile detention rates – 70 percent of juveniles in state-operated institutions

• Substance abuse – 75 percent of adolescent patients in substance abuse

• Aggression – 75 percent of rapists are motivated by displaced anger

Studies have proven that young boys who have a father figure are less likely to act out and young girls are often more confident. A father can also help establish a sense of security to the family unit and guide children to make wiser decisions.

Fathers also help boys develop self-respect for women and make girls more confident around men – two key aspects of a child’s social development.

Providing this foundation is crucial for all of our children in the community and is not exclusive to our own children. Being a mentor and working with youth organizations as a coach can play a key role for kids.

We salute and honor all of those fathers who have made a difference in the lives of their children and other children who look to them as father figures.

Happy Fathers Day to all of you Dads out there who are making  a difference.