A father’s body can return from incarceration, but his mind and spirit might remain caged. This engaging experience presents a comprehensive, evidence-based model for facilitating successful reintroduction of returning citizens – particularly fathers – into society, the workforce, and their family. Collectively, we’ll learn from the nationally recognized work of Fathers and Families Center in Indianapolis, where the recidivism rate among participants is less than 7% (as compared to the city's average of 45%), President & CEO Larry Smith presents a holistic approach to reentry.



You will learn that, while securing a job is important, but it is not sufficient by itself. Effective reintegration requires addressing the full scope of man's needs: educational advancement, expungement and legal support, employment preparedness, housing stability, parenting and relationship skills, and mental/emotional wellbeing.



This presentation will go from didactic to dialogical, with Smith highlighting how FFC's approach combines practical supports with a culture of love and accountability – "We do not coddle these men, neither do we condemn them. We love them to life." Participants will explore proven strategies that can be replicated to reduce recidivism, strengthen families, and create new cycles of community impact. Come. Learn. Share.