Fathers honored at Proud Dad Cookout

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The African American Male Wellness Agency (AAMWA) fired up the grills on Saturday for the Proud Dad Cookout.

Hundreds gathered in the South Linden section of Columbus with activities for the family to celebrate fathers in central Ohio.

In addition to games for the children and free food, there was a cook-off for the dads.

The agency said the main goal of the event was to promote the importance of active fathers.

"We are here to make sure our fathers are building bonds, having those intentional interactions with their children and learning how to have those interactions," AAMWA Executive Director Jonathan Bentley said.

The agency asks all fathers to take the "Proud Dad Pledge" by being more involved in their children's lives and education.