We kicked off May with our One Day With God camp at Alexander Correctional—an incredible experience on many levels. In this blog, however, I want to shine a light on a part of our ministry that is often overlooked: the Caregiver Program.
In families affected by incarceration, there is a deep longing—for healing, reconnection, and hope. More often than not, it’s the caregiver who carries the weight of that longing. They are the ones keeping the family together, managing the emotional, spiritual, and practical challenges each day. That reality came through clearly as caregivers responded to two simple but powerful questions: Beginning of Day — What do I want to get out of today? End of Day — What did you get from this day?
As you read their words, I think you’ll see the heart of those involved—and the true value of what we do.
Beginning of Day — Caregiver Responses: What do I want to get out of today?
I would like for the children to come home from the program knowing that their dad really does LOVE them and that maybe one day they will be able to bond again and be a family.
Resources to continue to encourage the kids.
To show Daniel and Ellie if you try to do the work with a willing heart, God will show up and Jesus will move. I want Daniel to know how to trust and have faith even in fear, to know that God loves us. He gives us his mercy.
Being here solely for the kids to see their father. This camp has made a positive impact on our families. The children are excited about seeing their father and it is such a great and positive impact and blessing.
I want children to be happy to see the fathers. This makes me feel good. Children are special to their father who is their hero.
Was just glad my son got to see 1 of his kids out of 5. Hope next time he gets to see his baby boy. Thanks again.
Allow him to be a father. Fatherhood is important in the world. This program has given Cali’s dad more time with her. This also gives me the Mom a break. We look forward to this program. I’m sure this promotes positivity. Share this program with the entire world.
It’s only 10 am and this has already been an amazing day. The joy and excitement the kids and their dad have for this time to be able to hopefully for a moment forget where they are. Although the situation, they are still dads and heroes in their kids’ eyes. This program gives them hope in people, that they aren’t forgotten, and this is temporary and gives them something to change their path and positive outlook in life.
A communication for understanding that we all need to establish a relationship with each other, our neighbors, and above all else the Father to become better believers, good stewards and lovers of Christ.
I hope to learn that my daughter and her dad’s bond grew stronger.
I pray and hope that my daughter really enjoys her Dad and Sister and that my family will enjoy this group while we wait on them to come back.
The love and purpose behind these hopes set the tone for what became a day of connection, reflection, and transformation. When the day came to a close, caregivers returned to share what the experience had brought them.
End of Day — Caregiver Reflections: What did you get from this day?
I enjoyed the basketball and the speech about the game and I enjoyed the lunch. Meeting new people and talking with them. Very informative. Learn something new every time.
Being with other families who are in the same situation as yourself helps make you feel you’re not the only one that feels the pain, heartache of having a loved one incarcerated. Enjoyed the One Day With God workers.
Meeting people in our same situation. Learning how to be creative with others making crafts.
Today was awesome. I love the community. Relaxation. A Mommy break. Nap + Fun + Food
Got the privilege to share with many great people. To know I am not going through this alone. Resources. A great day of fellowship and meeting new people sharing the same journey. This is an AMAZING program for ALL involved. Please keep going.
We are not alone. There is a community of people helping. Focus on the good. Stay mindful. Do something creative, fun.
The joy of thinking or knowing my child got to enjoy seeing and being with his Dad and seeing God’s work.
I got exactly what I wanted and expected. Praise and worship the name of GOD.
Today was very exciting. I met new people, made a night light, delicious food and the staff and volunteers was kind and very helpful. I plan to start taking my granddaughter to church and start to volunteer with One Day With God. I really appreciate everything One Day With God has done. Thank you.
Found extended support system
My first visit with my sister for my nephew. I was overjoyed. This camp / program if possible would be great if it could be at least quarterly or every 6 months.
I learned that our situations were not all the same. Some were going through harder situations. I learned how to face the fear and keep God first. Meeting new people and personalities.
I learned that I’m not alone in this because there are people that are going through similar yet tougher situations. I enjoyed my time today because I felt seen and not judged. I appreciate this program wholeheartedly. Thanks for giving my child this opportunity and allowing me to be a part.
All of this points to the deep value of our Caregiver Program. While the focus is often on the children and their incarcerated dads, it’s the caregivers who carry the weight—holding families together, comforting the children, and managing daily life.
This program offers them more than just support—it offers renewal.
