On May 15, 2008, the YMCA of Greater Toronto will celebrate the 15th annual International Day of Families.  YMCA Newcomer Services invites our members, volunteers, staff and the general public to join us for a night of stories, where five authors will share inspiring stories of their families.  The event begins at 6 p.m. at 42 Charles Street East in the 9th floor auditorium.

The theme for this year’s International Day of Families is “Fathers and Families: Responsibilities and Challenges,” which emphasizes the role of the father in the family and the important responsibilities and special challenges that accompany it.

The International Day of Families provides an opportunity to promote awareness of issues relating to the family as the basic unit of society as well as to promote appropriate action to recognize and promote the importance of families. The day is an opportunity for countries to support families and to promote a better understanding of the functions, problems, strengths and needs of families around the world.

International Day of Families was first proclaimed by the United National General Assembly on September 20th 1993.