Father’s Day is just around the corner on Sunday, June 21. On this day we celebrate the men in our lives who have filled the role of “father” through their love, kindness and positive role modelling.
Yet for some, Father’s Day can be an especially hard day. Some individuals may not have enough resources to get gifts for Father’s Day, their father may be absent or the role of their father may have never been filled. How can we celebrate this day while respecting and supporting different experiences? Today we’re going to talk about how to give Dad the gift of altruism this Father’s Day.
1. Respect those whose fathers aren’t present.
One of the hardest—yet most valuable things—you can do to celebrate an altruistic Father’s Day is to recognize that many people may not have a paternal presence in their lives. Whether their father has passed away, is serving our country or is not a part of their lives, Father’s Day can be a difficult time for many.
While this certainly doesn’t mean you’re not allowed to celebrate the day yourself, it does give us an opportunity to learn from those with different perspectives. Be careful in how you word phrases, share posts and treat others. Recognize that this day may create contrasting feelings for people, and respecting these feelings is a way to share compassion.
2. Consider those who have different kinds of fathers.
Along with those whose fathers are not present, there are also different kinds of fathers. Some people consider their grandfathers, uncles, teachers or others as paternal figures in their lives. Some individuals may have an adopted father or multiple father figures. This Father’s Day, spread the gift of understanding by recognizing those who celebrate their different kinds of fathers.
3. Give your dad a gift that gives back.
For the father figure in your life, celebrate an altruistic Father’s Day by giving a gift that gives back. Check out different programs both locally and nationally that have the option to buy a gift while also donating money or services to a cause.
Oftentimes, both nonprofit organizations and charitable businesses will have gift choices where proceeds support a cause close to your heart. Check online or in your community to see what gift you can get dad that supports a mission he believes in.
4. Spend time doing what he wants.
Of course, one awesome way to celebrate Father’s Day is by spending time together as a family doing activities dad is interested in. Dads can provide a loving, stable force in the family, so celebrate his commitment this Father’s Day by spending time doing some of his favorite hobbies and pastimes.
5. Get involved in the community.
Finally, have an altruistic Father’s Day by getting involved in the community as a family. Find a nonprofit cause your dad cares about and volunteer or donate to celebrate the day. This way, your family gets to enjoy the day and share that enjoyment with others in the community.
This Father’s Day, give Dad the best gift: a caring, compassionate life. See how you can support others around you and give back this Sunday. Together, we can create a more altruistic world.
