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ALBANY, GA -- Father's Day is commonly celebrated with the gift of a tie or maybe the newest tool on the market, but one neighborhood decided to change things up by having a Father's Day Extravaganza with an important theme.

"We thought it was nice to go ahead and have a block party to be mentors for the young men," said Kendell Crawford, owner of Crawford Construction.

Kids slid down water slides, played basketball, went swimming, and enjoyed the presence of father figures Sunday afternoon - which some believe is an essential need for children.

"It's very, very essential that we have fatherhood, that we bring it back to our communities. We can't go far without it, this generation needs it because we are missing it," said Eric Dukes, a youth pastor at the Metropolitan Baptist Church.

By giving back to the children these men are hoping to ingrain some important life lessons at an early age.

"How to be responsible, how to be respectful, how to be courteous,” said Williams.

The men say the earlier they’re learned, the higher the chance of becoming a habit to be continued throughout life.

Although these fathers are choosing to give back today, there are small ways children can show their fathers they care.

"Just tell him you love him. Those kind words will go a long ways,” said Crawford.

"Staying out of trouble, doing the right thing, going to school, getting good grades. Your father sees that. What you teach your child, your child shows you and you see it, that's a reward enough," said Williams.