Home » Fathers in Focus 2026 » Fathers in Focus Conference Track 6: Justice-Involved Families
Fathers in Focus Conference Track 6: Justice-Involved 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. Navigating the justice system can be overwhelming, especially for 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.
Fathering Beyond the Wall and Without Boundaries: Reenter, Reimagine, Restore, and Redeem
Presented By Bruce D. Edwards
Presented in English, interpretation available upon request in registration
The audience will embrace new concepts to overcome the challenges that face returning citizens who seek to reestablish their role as a father, provider, and caregiver for his children. My presentation will provide constructive and conversational considerations on: self-identity; communication; accountability; transparency; court order(s); pride; conflict resolution; and priorities; etc.
Bruce D. Edwards serves as a Juvenile Family Magistrate for the Prince George’s County Circuit Court in Maryland, where he presides over matters involving child welfare, juvenile delinquency, and truancy. He earned bachelor’s degrees in Government & Law and Africana Studies from Lafayette College, a Juris Doctor from New England Law Boston, and a Master of Laws degree from American University.
Bruce is the former Vice Chair of the Prince George’s County Commission on Fathers, Men and Boys and is the author of The 14 Virtues of the Good Father: Navigational Tools for the Father Inside of Every Man. His work focuses on strengthening fathers, families, and communities.
When the Court Date Ends… Fatherhood Continues: What You Do Next Will Define Everything
Presented By Otis Harris Jr.
Presented in English, interpretation available upon request in registration
When legal or personal challenges disrupt fatherhood, many men feel stuck. This session challenges fathers to move beyond outcomes and focus on what they control—their presence, consistency, and growth. Designed for fathers navigating adversity, this interactive experience equips men to remain engaged and intentional in their children’s lives.
Otis Harris Jr. is a father, community leader, and Recovery & Community Integration Specialist with Sondercove Wellness, LLC, and Founder of PushedN2Destiny Consulting LLC. With over two decades of experience in youth development, family engagement, and leadership, Otis is committed to empowering fathers and strengthening families. Through lived experience and professional work, he supports individuals navigating complex life challenges. Otis also serves in ministry leadership and education, equipping youth and families with tools for growth, accountability, and purpose. His approach is direct, engaging, and rooted in real-life transformation.
The Reentry Journey: Education, Employment, and Fatherhood
Presented By Daniel Webster
Presented in English, interpretation available upon request in registration
This presentation shares one father’s journey from incarceration to rebuilding a meaningful life through education, employment, and reconnecting with his son after years apart. Through honest storytelling and lived experience, participants will hear about the challenges of reentry, extended supervision, overcoming setbacks, and restoring family relationships.
Participants will learn practical strategies for navigating supervision, employment, education, and family responsibilities while rebuilding trust and strengthening connections with loved ones. This session is designed for fathers, service providers, and community members interested in supporting successful reentry and family reunification.
Daniel Webster serves as Director of Workforce Development & Community Engagement for Walbec Group, supporting workforce initiatives throughout Wisconsin and Michigan. Prior to joining the Human Resources team, he spent four years working in the field as a Traffic Control Technician on major transportation projects across Wisconsin, including the Interstate 41 Corridor Project and the Zoo Interchange.
An enrolled member of the Oneida Nation, Daniel has been a leader in expanding employment and workforce opportunities for Tribal communities throughout Wisconsin. He serves on multiple boards and advisory committees dedicated to advancing workforce development, diversity, equity, inclusion, and Tribal engagement within the construction industry. Through both his professional and personal experiences, Daniel is passionate about creating pathways to opportunity, second chances, and long-term success for individuals and families.