President-elect Barack Obama Named 2009 Father of the Year

In recognition for his steadfast support of strengthening fatherhood and families, The Fatherhood Educational Institute (FEI) announces Barack Obama as the 2009 Father of the Year.

By re-introducing the Responsible Fatherhood and Healthy Families Act, Barack Obama exemplifies his status as a champion of fatherhood and male involvement.

"I think we got to do a real good job trying to reintroduce males who have been involved in the criminal justice system as ex-offenders -- giving them the opportunity so that they are able to support their families, find work, get on the right path -- but ultimately there's a lot of personal responsibility that's involved in this. And one of the things I want to do as president is to use the bully pulpit to say to men, You have to get involved in your child's life. It will make a difference not only in their lives but in yours," Obama said.

"As the father of two children, Obama realizes the significant importance that fathers have in the lives of children and FEI is honored to name the President-elect as Father of the Year," said Jeffery Leving, President Emeritus of FEI. "We also thank Barack Obama for sharing his thoughts on his Responsible Fatherhood and Healthy Families Act on my radio show." (To listen to the archived interview visit: http://www.dadsrights.com.)

"The FEI Father of the Year Award was created to honor the finest examples of American fatherhood," says James Hagler on behalf of the Board of Directors.

About The Fatherhood Educational Institute

FEI is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to promote positive fatherhood involvement in poverty stricken communities.