President-elect Barack Obama Recognized by FEI in 2009 for Fatherhood Excellence

(Chicago, IL) Jan 2009 — In recognition for his steadfast support of strengthening fatherhood and families, The Fatherhood Educational Institute (FEI) recognizes Barack Obama for Fatherhood Excellence.

By re-introducing the Responsible Fatherhood and Healthy Families Act, Barack Obama exemplifies his status as a champion of fatherhood excellence and male involvement.

“I think we’ve got to do a real good job trying to reintroduce males who have been involved in the criminal justice system as ex-offenders – giving them the opportunity so that they are able to support their families, find work, get on the right path – but ultimately there’s a lot of personal responsibility that’s involved in this. And one of the things I want to do as President is to use the bully pulpit to say to men: You have to get involved in your child’s life. It will make a difference not only in their lives but in yours,” said Obama.

“As the father of two children, Obama realizes the significant importance that fathers have in the lives of children and FEI is honored to recognize the President-elect as a wonderful example of fatherhood,” said Jeffery Leving, President Emeritus of FEI. “We also thank Barack Obama for sharing his thoughts on his Responsible Fatherhood and Healthy Families Act on my radio show,” Leving further stated.

About the Fatherhood Educational Institute
FEI is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to promote positive fatherhood involvement in poverty stricken communities throughout America.

Media Contact: Jennifer Whiteside (312) 795-9060; www.fatherhood-edu.org