Present Pillars in Benton Harbor is getting some attention in Lansing as it kicks off Dad Week this week.

Present Pillars Director James Gunter tells us they’ll be holding several special events for Dad Week, and this Wednesday, state Representative Joey Andrews is going to read a resolution on the House floor officially recognizing Dad Week statewide. Gunter proposed the resolution to his office.

“It basically highlights the importance of fatherhood, not just for people here in Benton Harbor or Southwest Michigan, but for the entire world,” Gunter said. “Fathers are important and it’s really highlighting that fact along with some other statistics about men’s health and how important it is for this issue to be elevated in Michigan.”

Gunter says the state resolution is a powerful step toward honoring and uplifting fathers and father figures across Michigan.

“It really feels amazing, especially for a little Benton Harbor to be leading the way in this way. It’s an amazing thing and a major accomplishment for the city.”

Dad Week events really get underway Tuesday with a community cleanup at Frank’s Park in Benton Harbor. That will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Later on, at 5:30, dads are invited to bring their kids to a private screening of Lilo and Stitch at Celebration Cinema. Ticket purchases are required.

Gunter says Wednesday will include dad and kid photos at the Boys and Girls Club Teen Center, and then Dad Week wraps up Sunday with a day at Jean Klock Park.

Anyone looking for more information can check out the Facebook page of Present Pillars.