WCSO reducing recidivism in the jail – 1 DAD at a time

Image courtesy of Walton County Sheriff’s Office social media. #1 DADS graduates not pictured

WALTON COUNTY, GA (Aug. 27, 2026) – Walton County Sheriff’s Office this week announced its first ever #1 DADS graduation hosted at the new Walton County Detention Center, noting this marks an important milestone in its continued effort to “support fathers, strengthen families, and create meaningful pathways toward positive change.”

Through ACTION, Inc.’s #1 DADS program, fathers across more than 10 Northeast Georgia counties—including Barrow, Clarke, Elbert, Greene, Jackson, Madison, Morgan, Oconee, Oglethorpe, and now Walton—are given the tools and support needed to build, restore, and strengthen relationships with their children and families. It is an inmate rehabilitation and parenting initiative offered in Georgia detention facilities designed to help incarcerated fathers rebuild relationships with their children with hopes of also reducing recidivism.

According to WCSO, the program provides parenting education focused on self-reflection, effective communication, personal responsibility, and responsible fatherhood.

“Most importantly, the support does not end when the classes do. ACTION, Inc. maintains a one-year follow-up relationship with participants after completion or release, providing continued encouragement and assistance with parenting, housing, employment searches, and other challenges that can impact a father’s ability to successfully reconnect with his family,” WCSO noted in a social media post. “Investing in fathers means investing in children, families, and stronger communities. We are proud to support programs that recognize that accountability and rehabilitation can—and should—go hand in hand.”

Officials congratulated the first #1 DADS graduates, noting “Your commitment to becoming better fathers and stronger members of your families is something worth celebrating.”