Girl Dad Week 2026: Celebrating the Champions Who Help Girls Thrive
At Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis, we know that girls thrive when they have strong support systems. Every day, dads, father figures, and other positive male role models encourage girls to dream bigger, lead boldly, and believe in themselves.
That’s why we launched the Girl Dad campaign in 2023—to raise awareness of the Girls Inc. Indy mission while celebrating the important role positive male role models play in girls’ lives. The Girl Dad Movement honors the fathers who see their daughters as future changemakers, trailblazers, and leaders in their communities.
From June 14-21, 2026, we hosted Girl Dad Week by recognize these remarkable men. Throughout the week, our community shared stories, photos, and memories that celebrated the relationships helping girls grow strong, smart, and bold.
We kicked off the week with a special message from Andrew Peñalva, Girls Inc. Indy Board Member and proud Girl Dad. Andrew reflected on the importance of encouragement, opportunity, and unwavering support in helping girls reach their full potential. His message set the tone for a week dedicated to celebrating the people who help girls discover their strengths and pursue their dreams.
As the week continued, Girls Inc. Indy staff, families, supporters, and community members shared photos and stories honoring the Girl Dads in their own lives. Every submission reflected the same powerful message: behind every confident girl is someone who believes in her.
We were also honored to welcome two well-known faces from the Indianapolis community to the Girl Dad Movement.
Indiana Pacers forward Obi Toppin shared what being a Girl Dad means to him, reminding us that, “Being a girl dad is a huge privilege and responsibility. The lessons that they learn from us today will stay with them for the rest of their lives.”
Arrow McLaren Team Principal Tony Kanaan reflected on how his daughter, Nina, has taught him more about himself and parenthood than he could have imagined. As Tony shared, “My instinct may be to protect her, but time and time again she shows me how strong she is on her own. I love seeing her dream big and challenge the status quo.”
The week concluded with Father’s Day, a day to honor the dads and father figures in all of our lives.
Girl Dad Week is a reminder that being a Girl Dad is more than just having a daughter. It’s a charge—an invitation to work together, inspiring inherent strengths and making our community a better place for girls.
Thank you to everyone who shared a story, submitted a photo, or took a moment to recognize an extraordinary Girl Dad. Together, you’re helping build a community where every girl knows she is supported, valued, and capable of achieving her dreams.
Join the Girl Dad Movement to learn how you can support girls across Central Indiana: https://girlsincindy.org/girl-dad