Father's Day is a time to honor the men in our lives who have helped shape us into the people we are today. But in today's society, too many children grow up without that support and guidance.
11 year old Jakori Edwards says he wants to grow up to be just like his father.
"We watch sports, play games, he takes me to the movies," says Jakori Edwards.
But the role of a father goes beyond fun and games. "The most important thing about my dad, he spends a lot of time with me, and we have a good relationship together," says Edwards.
But not all children are as lucky as Jakori. There are many kids right here in Albany who don't know have that special relationship with their father.
"If you notice in our community we have at least 60% of women raising boys and I have learned it takes a man to raise a boy," says Kendell Crawford
A father's absence is felt not only by their children but communities as well. Crawford says children who grow up without a strong male figure in their lives are more likely to be led astray.
"If you don't spend quality time, the gang bangers will and that's who will win in the end," says Crawford.
Kalynn Zackery has three daughters of his own and says he learned how to be a good father from his dad.
"There was never a day in my life that I wasn't able to talk to my dad or see my dad," says Kalynn Zackery.
Zackery says the absence of a Father figure can leave a hole that can have lasting effects.
"Everyone needs the love of a parent, and the people that I have met that didn't have that, it is like they are missing something," says Zackery.
After all a dad has a big impact in raising and balancing a family.
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