What if one initiative could rewrite the story of a family?

Since 2009, the Date With Dad Program has done precisely that, starting with a simple, heartfelt letter.

It began when a group of middle school girls wrote to Richmond City Jail, asking for something that had never been done before: a father-daughter dance behind bars. Under the leadership of former Sheriff C.T. Woody, that request became a reality. The Richmond Justice Center (formerly Richmond City Jail) was the first facility in Virginia to host the event, and the Date With Dad Program was born. 

Girls For A Change has hosted over 12 cycles of the Date With Dad Program since that first event, each culminating in a powerful father-daughter dance that celebrates reconnection, healing, bonding, and policy change tied to family reunification.

More Than a Dance—A Path to Reconnection

• Fatherhood circles

• Mentorship and emotional development

• Activities to rebuild trust with their daughters

Mothers and caregivers are also supported through parallel sessions, ensuring lasting impact beyond the dance.

The Results Speak for Themselves

• 95% reduction in recidivism among participants
• Free mental health counseling for fathers and daughters
• Ongoing aftercare services to support family reunification
• Policy reform in visitation and family engagement
• Educational and career support through dedicated funding
• Impact screenings of Daughters that inspire real change

After more than a decade of transformative work and recognition, we're expanding. The Date With Dad model is ready to be implemented in facilities nationwide—and we want you to be part of it.

Now Is the Time to Act
Host an Impact Screening of Daughters (as seen on Netflix), or bring the
Date With Dad Program to your school, organization, or institution.
 

You Are Invited to Be Part of the Change

Bring your community face-to-face with the directors, film participants, and families directly impacted by the criminal justice system. These events don’t just change minds—they strengthen existing programs, inspire policy shifts, and build meaningful support for families, leading to stronger, more resilient communities.

Take Action

• Book a Screening of Daughters 

• Host a Date With Dad Program

• Make a Donation 

Join us in transforming visitation practices and advocating for lasting, systemic change.