Fathers in Focus Conference Track 6: Justice-Involved Families
Fathers in Focus Conference 2024 » Track 6: Justice-Involved Families
Track 6:
Justice-Involved Families
Justice-Involved Families
Navigating the justice system can be overwhelming, especially for families. This track offers sessions that provide guidance on supporting your family through legal challenges, understanding your rights, and accessing resources for justice-involved families. Whether you’re dealing with incarceration, legal issues, or reentry, these sessions will provide valuable information and support to help you navigate this complex system.
Concurrent Session 1: Challenges and triumphs of co-parenting after incarceration
Discover strategies for rebuilding trust, fostering communication, and prioritizing your child’s well-being after incarceration. Learn how to navigate this unique journey with strength and resilience, creating a positive environment for your family’s future.
Presented By
Anthony Cooper, the CEO, and founder of Focused Interruption in Dane County, Wisconsin, is a dedicated servant in community violence intervention, prevention, and reentry services. Renowned for bridging divides and promoting peace, his work reflects his journey through adversity, inspiring hope and resilience. Cooper’s commitment to empowerment and positive change is evident in the establishment of Dane County’s first hospital-based violence prevention program. His core belief in the possibility of change drives his mission to empower individuals and communities for a brighter future. Through Focused Interruption, Cooper continues to make a profound impact, fostering social change and building safer, more inclusive communities.
Contact: acooper@focusedInterruption.org
Concurrent Session 2: How Can We Help Each Other?
This workshop will engage participants in conversations about navigating the complexities of post-release life and rebuilding relationships while managing mental health disorders. You will discover resources and peer support essential for success.
Presented By
Christopher Zahn is the ED2Recovery+ Program Coordinator for Wisconsin Voices for Recovery, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Wisconsin – Madison. Christopher has over 30 years of experience with the criminal justice system. He has extensive knowledge advocating for substance use and mental health disorders, criminal justice reform, and reentry needs. Christopher is a Wisconsin Certified Peer Specialist, CCAR (Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery) – Recovery Coach Professional/Facilitator, Wisconsin D.H.S. Certified Naloxone Administration Trainer, SMART Recovery Program Facilitator, Brown County Health & Human Services – Youth Support Specialist, Nurturing Parenting Program Facilitator, Reentry Specialist, and a 2021 Leading with Conviction Fellow.
Contact: christopher.zahn@fammed.wisc.edu
Concurrent Session 3: Fathering After Incarceration
Explore strategies for thriving as a father post-incarceration, while on probation, parole, or extended supervision. Discover what success looks like after incarceration and delve into the crucial need to break the cycle of re-incarceration. Together, we will address the importance of your children witnessing your success post-incarceration and explore how this impacts their lives positively.
Presented By
In 1995, at the age of 17, Joshua Johnson found himself incarcerated. However, after spending nearly a decade behind bars, he made a heartfelt commitment to never return. Joshua has since devoted his time to inspiring and motivating others, and sharing his remarkable tale of resilience. Joshua captivates audiences with his unwavering passion and unparalleled energy. He addresses the formidable obstacles he conquered due to his felony conviction, both in his personal and professional life, eventually rising to become a prominent career executive within the Wisconsin State Government. To further solidify his journey, Joshua received a full and unconditional Governor’s pardon in Wisconsin. Joshua launched the Pardon Me brand in 2022 after receiving his official Governor’s pardon.
Contact: Joshua@pardonme22.com
Concurrent Session 4: Parenting While Incarcerated
This session highlights jail-based programs, classes, and interventions designed to help fathers develop and practice parenting skills, alongside discussions on community reentry planning during incarceration. It is tailored for practitioners, mentors, policymakers, educators, and family members of incarcerated individuals.
Presented By
Adam Turnzo has worked in the Jackson and Trempealeau County Jails as a parent educator and reentry coordinator for a combined 12 years. Adam also chairs the local criminal justice coordinating council and reentry coalition in rural Trempealeau County
Contact: adam.trunzo@wisc.edu
Richard Williams IV is currently the Justice-Involved Families Program Coordinator at the University of Wisconsin Extension. He is an accomplished human services professional with over 12 years of experience dedicated to serving youth, adults, and families. With a proven track record in program management, Mr. Williams excels at initiating, developing, and implementing services that effectively advance program goals and enhance community well-being. Richard earned his Bachelor of Science in Human Services from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. Outside of his professional pursuits, Richard is a devoted family man who cherishes spending quality time with his wife and children. He has a passion for collecting sneakers, particularly those from the Jordan brand, reflecting his appreciation for both style and culture. As a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated since 2023, Richard is actively engaged in community service and mentorship.
Contact: rlwilliams23@wisc.edu
