Event Update: 2023 Hughes Day with Dad

What a joyous time it was this weekend as D4C hosted this spring’s Day with Dad at the Hughes unit!
These events are days that we cherish for so many reasons, but mainly because we see the goodness of God as He brings families together for a day full of fun and restoring relationships.

One of our families shared…

“Day with Dad is such a wonderful experience….

Truly beyond words. There’s no prison walls. We were able to experience everyday family things….sitting together, playing, eating, watching a movie. There was so much laughter, play, healing. We were able to have a day that my husband wasn’t locked away from us. He got to see Layla as herself, not just a 2-hour sit down visit. We have also gotten support from other wives there and Layla meeting and playing with other children in the same situation. She sees that she’s not alone in the experiences she has with someone being locked away. We thank God for it because we know that if it wasn’t for His workers doing God’s work we wouldn’t have this experience. This day helps us to remember what it’s all about and what it’s all for…family.”

One of our volunteers had this to say about what the day meant to her…

“What an absolute blessing it was to be able to be at Day with Dad…

Watching the guys and their families, and hearing from the guys about their day after their families left, was one of the most powerful things I’ve ever been a part of. The hope, the determination, and the faith that they have renewed my own heart and my faith. It was by far a core memory that I will always cherish that I hope I can participate in each and every time. I might have gone to help, but I walked away with so much more than I could have imagined.”

Our founder Susan shared…

“Words can’t describe the joy of watching these children run to embrace their father…

Watching the guys and their families, and hearing from the guys about their day after their families left, was one of the most powerful things I’ve ever been a part of. The hope, the determination, and the faith that they have renewed my own heart and my faith. It was by far a core memory that I will always cherish that I hope I can participate in each and every time. I might have gone to help, but I walked away with so much more than I could have imagined.”

For one day, these children get to set aside the reality that their father is incarcerated and just enjoy all the activities. Laughter filled the chapel as the families played the different card games at their tables. We couldn’t help but smile as the different families gathered around their table to play games like Skip-Bo and Phase 10.”

This day means the world to these dads, their children, and their families, and we are so grateful and honored for the privilege God gives us to be a part of their lives in this way!