CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — The Champaign Public Library, in collaboration with various community groups, hosted an event on Friday dedicated to acknowledging the significance of active fatherhood.

This open forum welcomed fathers and male caregivers on Friday afternoon to discuss the value of being a father. Organized by the nonprofit “Saving Our Families Together Today,” the gathering attracted close to 20 participants.

Among the notable speakers on stage were Rantoul Mayor Samuel Hall and Urbana Mayor Deshawn Williams. An organizer highlighted the importance of providing support to men in their roles as fathers.

“Sometimes there’s a stigma, and with men being vulnerable, it’s not yet always shown in a positive light or shown at all,” said Javaite Burton, director of community impact at United Way of Champaign County. “So, we think it’s very important that caregivers, whether we see a lot of moms, but dads are really important too. And for them to have a space where they can talk about what their needs are and how they want to be involved in their children’s lives.”

She said the plan is to return this event again next year.