BENTON HARBOR, Mich. -- Local dads, father figures and their families are invited to the third annual Dad's Day in the Park event on July 26 at Union Park. 

The Berrien County Health Department is hosting this event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and attendees can enjoy free food, activities, raffles and prizes from local businesses. 

There will also be opportunities to get information about employment and educational opportunities as well as health and wellness resources. 

“Dad’s Day in the Park is dedicated to celebrating and uplifting all local father figures and their children,” said Charlie Patterson, a Michigan Adolescent Pregnancy and Parenting Program case manager at BCHD.

“This is a special event where dads and kids can enjoy each other’s company and learn about all the services we offer to set both dad and child up for success. We want fathers, especially young dads, to know they have resources and support in the community.”

The BCHD's Mi-APPP team works closely with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to address teen pregnancy and parenthood in the community.

Mi-APPP provides parenting support services, and their program is open to individuals 21 and younger who are parenting or expecting a child and living in Berrien County.

Mi-APPP focuses on young dads through its Son to a Father initiative, which provides participants opportunities to connect with other young dads in the area and discuss fatherhood.

For more information about Mi-APPP visit their website.