In the Richard Pacitti Reentry and Transitional Center, a group of graduating fathers broke bread together— or rather egg rolls—in celebration of their progress and self-betterment. July 24th marked the graduation of the newest Fathers’ Uplift cohort, a 12-week program designed to help incarcerated men overcome the generational trauma and emotional barriers that have impacted their parental role through therapeutic and workforce development services. As the nation’s first mental health and substance use treatment facility for fathers and families, Fathers’ Uplift provides Suffolk County House of Correction participants with reentry support pre- and post-release, with the mission to foster family stability and community empowerment.

For Louis, who voluntarily completed the program twice, the lessons learned will last far beyond his time inside. “This program has helped reinforce my notions of what patience should be. Patience takes patience,” he said, smiling. “When I get home, I’ll be a stronger father for it.”