Fathers in Soundview participated in the annual "Dads Take Your Child to School Day" Tuesday in the Bronx.

Organizers say over 700 spots in the country were participating in similar events.

The goal of the event, which began in 2002, is for dads to be involved and active in their kids' lives as they start a new school year.

MORE: Department of Youth & Community Development

"It's important because you can look at the society now, a lot of dads are not here and it's a lot of single moms," says parent Denis Martin. "Personally, I don't really know my father, so I'm going to be here for my kids – it's basically a support system. You got to be there and have their back."

The event was open to all dads and male role models, including uncles, grandfathers and mentors.

Organizers said participants were walking their kids from the Bronx River Cornerstone Community Center to neighboring schools.