By Jordan Ashford
In the United States, more than 5 million children have experienced the incarceration of a parent, a staggering number that reflects a silent crisis affecting families across the nation. These children face profound emotional and psychological challenges—feelings of abandonment, social stigma, and economic hardship—that can have long-lasting effects on their well-being.
Recognizing the need for healing and connection, father and son duo Coley Harris and Ahmarr Melton founded Out of the Ashes, a program that turns their personal story of separation and reconciliation into a powerful performance aimed at helping families rebuild.
A Personal Story Turned National Mission
Harris, who served 14 years in prison, was separated from Melton when his son was just a toddler. “We started this because we saw value in how our relationship turned out,” Melton shares. “We realized many others have similar experiences but haven’t been as fortunate.”
Out of the Ashes is more than a performance. It’s a piercing one-act drama therapy-inspired presentation that holds up a mirror to the very real trauma experienced by children with incarcerated parents. Through candid storytelling, Harris reflects on life as an absentee father behind bars, while Melton shares his emotional journey of growing up without his dad.
An Unconventional Approach to Healing
Unlike traditional interventions, Out of the Ashes is an intimate three-act presentation that cuts through surface-level conversations and dives deep into raw, emotional territory. “It’s the perfect tool for students with an incarcerated parent,” Melton explains. “Our performance sparks meaningful conversations and inspires families to rebuild broken relationships.”
For many in the audience, the impact is immediate and profound.
“One of the 8th-grade students was so affected by the performance that her mom had to come pick her up,” recalls a counselor at Gateway Charter School. “Although she was upset, her mom said it was wonderful that the students experienced something so powerful. It started a much-needed conversation.”
Scaling a Movement for Healing and Reconnection
Now, the founders are on a mission to expand their reach across the country, pursuing speaking engagements and partnerships with schools and organizations. Their goal is simple: help families heal, no matter how far apart they’ve been torn.
“We want people to know that no matter how bad it looks, there’s light at the end of the tunnel,” says Melton. “Families torn apart can be rebuilt. Redemption is possible.”
Get Involved
Individuals and organizations can experience Out of the Ashes in several ways—by attending a live performance, streaming it online, or simply sharing the story to spread awareness.
For more information or to book a live performance, please email info@outoftheashesllc.com.
