In 1909, Sonora Dodd created the concept of Fathers' Day to celebrate the many sacrifices her father had made to preserve his family after her mother had died. She described her father as a selfless, courageous and loving man. Today, more than 100 Fathers' Days later, more than 24 million children in America live in fatherless homes. The absence of fathers from their children's lives has led to poverty, low self-esteem, low academic achievement, juvenile delinquency and teen pregnancy. Here are 10 Reasons Why Kids without Dads are at a Big Disadvantage. Fathers change lives. How has your father's presence—or absence—affected your life?