RJ Donovan Correctional Facility (RJD) made history March 27 by hosting the first father-child dance to strengthen family connections.
The RJD father-child dance, called Blooming Bonds, was inspired by the documentary, “Daughters.”
The event was preceded by a 13-week parent group designed to help people navigate parenthood while being incarcerated.
Organized by Chief of Mental Health Dr. Sonia Bahro, Special Events Coordinator Toni Keen, Clinical Psychology Intern Emese Maklary and sponsored by Jason Shanley’s local organization, HoMEwork, the event provided incarcerated fathers with a rare opportunity to share a special evening with their children.
The event helps strengthen family connections and emotional well-being.
The event was filled with music, laughter, giveaways, and heartfelt moments as fathers and their children danced, embraced, and created lasting memories.
For many, it was the first time they had the chance to participate in such an intimate and joyful experience together.
Submitted by Lt. Adam Garvey
Written by Sonia A. Bahro, Ph.D., Chief of Mental Health
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