Father Daughter Valentine Dance

Fathers and Daughters; A Special Evening Together

In 1993 Jim Massery of Pittsfield, Mass. heard Dr.Dobson on the "Focus on the Family" broadcast discuss the importance of fathers and daughters having strong, healthy relationships. "My heart was convicted," Massery remembers, "when Dr. Dobson said, ‘A young girl will seek her father’s love first at home. If she doesn’t find it, she will seek it elsewhere.’ I remember praying, Lord, help my relationship with Marisa, my 4-year-old, to grow, and allow me to encourage other fathers with their daughters. Within seconds Massery was struck with an idea; How about a father-and-daughter Valentine dance? The more he pondered, the more ideas filled his head- Valentine decorations, cookies baked by moms, wholesome music, little girls dressed up, fathers giving corsages, and daughters learning how a gentleman treats a lady. If just one little girl gets her busy dad to spend an evening with her, then our evening would be a success, Massery believed. He met with his pastor, who thought it was a grand idea and offered the use of the church’s gymnasium. They decided to hold the event the Friday before Valentine’s Day. That first year, despite a raging snowstorm, 300 fathers and daughters took part, and the annual event has grown. Annually, over 1000 fathers and daughters attend the special evening, and Massery says using the church halls for the father-daughter evening lends the right atmosphere. "I'm currently praying that God would raise up concerned parents who could share in this outreach," Massery said.

If you would like to hold a father-daughter celebration in your community, please contact: