Workshops help inmates reconnect with their children

GARNER, N.C. — A program in Wake County is teaching inmates to be a positive influence in their children's lives.

Taylorsville-based Forgiven Ministry created the program, “One Day with God.” The camps help incarcerated fathers spend the day with their children. Workshops are held to help fathers reconnect and restore their relationships with their children.

“We’re seeing a big change in the dads that are attending this program,” Scottie Barnes, of Forgiven Ministries.

Wake County Inmate Raymond Sneed was one of 16 inmates at the Wake Correctional Center to attend Saturday’s camp at Solid Rock Ministries in Garner. He attended the camp with his 11-year-old son, Jeru.

“I accept my faults and I want to try to teach him and show him, as best I can, that you don’t have to choose this route,” Sneed said.

Sneed, originally of Franklinton, began serving a sentence on drug charges in January 2005. It is his third time in prison. He is expected to be release in October 2011. Sneed said he sees his son every six months.

“We believe in the heart of everyone. There is a need to be loved and accepted and for parents to be part of a child’s life,” Barnes said.