Giving Thanks for Dads: Honoring Fathers in Our Community

Allegheny Family Network
Oct 3
2 min read

Updated: Oct 4

This Thanksgiving season, Allegheny Family Network is setting the table for something truly special. On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 6:00 PM, we’ll gather for Giving Thanks for Dads — a community celebration honoring the vital role that fathers and father figures play in the lives of children, families, and neighborhoods across Pennsylvania.

The evening will be filled with fellowship, a warm meal, and meaningful reflection on the power of fatherhood.

We’re honored to welcome three distinguished guests whose lifelong work has strengthened families, communities, and opportunities for fathers:

Former Speaker of the House Mike Turzai – A respected public servant who represented Allegheny County in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for nearly two decades. As a legislator and community leader, Mike’s career has been marked by a steadfast commitment to strengthening opportunities for Pennsylvania families.

George Fleming – Founder of The Father’s Touch and a statewide leader in the fatherhood movement. George has spent decades mentoring men, reconnecting fathers with their families, and shaping policy and practice that restore men as vital contributors to community life.

Dr. Rufus Sylvester Lynch, ACSW – FATHERIST® Forensic Macro Practice NASW Social Work Pioneer® and CWLA Senior Fellow, and Founder and Chair of The Strong Families Commission, Inc. Dr. Lynch is a nationally recognized advocate and thought leader whose work has transformed how systems and communities engage and support fathers and families.

Together, these leaders will offer powerful insight and inspiration as we celebrate dads, honor their impact, and uplift the importance of fatherhood.

At AFN, we believe lived experience is the most powerful expertise. Giving Thanks for Dads is one way we affirm that belief — creating space to honor the unique journeys of fathers, share gratitude, and strengthen the bonds that keep families and communities thriving.

All are invited to attend!

This season of gratitude, let’s come together to celebrate, uplift, and give thanks for dads.

Event Details