In 1966, under President Lyndon B. Johnson Father’s Day became an official holiday and President Richard Nixon made the proclamation permanent in 1972. The day was celebrated unofficially earlier; in 1910, in Spokane, Washington, Sonora Dodd, a daughter of a single father, who was a Civil War veteran, was inspired to have a holiday for dads after attending a Mother’s Day service.

The Washington YMCA is joining in celebrating Father’s Day and recognizing the impact fathers and adult role models have in children’s lives. According to the YMCA, it is dedicated to providing resources and opportunities for fathers to involve themselves in the well-being and development of their children. For information regarding programs contact the Y.