Helping Families Heal After Incarceration
Workshops, coaching, and stage performances that open dialogue, shift behavior, and rebuild connection.
The Hidden Toll of Parental Incarceration
on Kids, Families and Communities
More than 1.7 million children in the U.S. have an incarcerated parent. One in eight children will experience it at some point in their lives. The effects are lasting — and disproportionately impact poor and minority communities.
Program managers across the country are searching for impactful solutions that go beyond surface-level engagement. That’s where we come in.
Built from Lived Experience. Backed by Clinical Practice.
Out of the Ashes is a dramatic, educational, and healing-centered program grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, restorative justice, and real-world experience. Our founders, Coley Harris and his son Ahmarr Melton, rebuilt their relationship after 14 years apart due to incarceration. Today, they use their story to guide others toward transformation.
As seen on
Trusted by organizations working in reentry, fatherhood, and community healing — including nonprofits, correctional facilities, city programs, and universities.
Programs We Offer
Customizable Workshops
Group-based, trauma-informed, and grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Restorative Family Reintegration
Sessions that unpack harm and rebuild trust after parental incarceration.
Parenting After Prison
Coaching and curriculum for parents reconnecting with children post-release.
Guest Lectures + Theatrical Presentations
Engage hearts and shift minds through our original stage performance: Out of the Ashes.
“We partnered with Out of the Ashes to bring their message to our staff, families, and local reentry orgs — the impact was immediate.”
— Chris Brown, President – NFI
“It’s not only for Black fathers and sons. It’s for all fathers and sons.”
— June Hawkins
Testimonials
Where it all began
In 1994, Coley Harris was sentenced to 16 years in prison. He left behind his 2-year-old son, Ahmarr Melton. What followed was a long, painful, and powerful process of reconnection.
From this journey came Out of the Ashes — a movement, a play, and a platform for healing families impacted by incarceration.
Ready to Bring
Out of the Ashes to Your Organization?
We’d be honored to design a workshop or program that fits your goals. Whether you're looking for a powerful one-time event or a longer engagement, let's talk.
📧 info@outoftheashesllc.com
📞 (302) 722-5758 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm)