On Saturday, September 19, Dads and father figures of all different walks of life brought their children to Carolyn Crayton Park for some ice cream and an opportunity to make new memories. Macon Violence Prevention (MVP) program, in partnership with Macon Mental Health matters, held its Ice Cream with Dad event.

“We’re trying to build camaraderie around fatherhood and community,” said MVP Coordinator Jeremy Grissom. “It’s important that we all connect, because we are all doing the same thing. Being a dad can be a hard job.”

Ice Cream with Dad is one of many being held around the country by a group called The Active Dad, which holds regular online meetings of fathers and father figures to discuss issues they face, learn of solutions, and find support.

“Our mission is to create community for dads and their kids, by fostering safe spaces for dads as well,” said The Active Dad Founder Rashamod Torrance. “We host monthly meetings and play dates to allow their kids and fathers to bond and also allow their kids to meet and network with other kids.”

Click here to see more pictures.