Returning Hearts Celebration, Ft. Lauderdale
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is it?
Returning Hearts is an annual event on the prison grounds that unites children and their inmate fathers for an unforgettable day of games, food, relationship building and Bible teaching. Click here to watch informational videos.

What is the Malachi Dads Program?
The Malachi Dads Program is a curriculum based program created by Awana. The program is 48 weeks long. This support group offers spiritual, parenting, vocational and educational training to inmate fathers. The goal is to develop these men into dads who are passionate about breaking the cycle of crime in their families. They are required to attend the weekly meetings, complete weekly individual course work, attend a weekly church service and memorize scripture.  

Is the Returning Hearts Celebration for everyone in the prison?
No, the celebration is for the prisoners that have completed the Malachi Dads Awana Program. It is one day where they can be real dads to their kids. Most importantly, the inmates have the opportunity to reconcile with their children by asking for their forgiveness and inviting them to accept Christ’s offer of salvation. This begins the healing process, breaking the power of sin and the cycle of crime. 

How often is the Returning Hearts Celebration?
This takes place one time each year. It is the “reward” for those prisoners that have completed the 48 week Malachi Dads Program. 

Is the Pompano Transitional Center a maximum security prison?
No, Pompano Transitional Center is a privately owned minimum security prison. They offer a faith based re-entry program for felons called the Pompano Transitional Re-entry Program. They provide participants with classes and programs designed to enhance their re-entry into society.  

When is the Returning Hearts Celebration at Pompano Transitional Center
Saturday, May 22, 2010, from 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM 

How can we (Community Christian Church) get involved?
Awana is looking for volunteers to help with the Returning Hearts Celebration. They need volunteers helping with registration; chaperoning the children coming to visit their dad; running the fair games; helping with crafts and serving the food. 

What do I need to do to volunteer?
Sign up for this Community Impact event. We will send you the volunteer application and the liability waiver along with proper instructions. Since this serve is in the courtyard of a prison, the volunteer application includes information to obtain a background check. 

When will the volunteers be trained?
The volunteer orientation will include dinner, volunteer training, meeting Malachi Dads and hearing their testimonies. This will take place on Friday, May 21, 2010 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Boca Raton Community Church.


Click here to watch informational videos about Returning Hearts Celebration.