Louisville Workshop Helps Fathers in Recovery Rebuild Lives

Fathers struggling with addiction are finding hope and rebuilding family bonds through a unique Louisville workshop designed just for them.

The Fathers in Recovery Workshop brings together dads working to overcome substance use challenges, offering them resources, life skills training, and the chance to hear from others who understand their journey. Hosted through a partnership between the Commonwealth Center for Fathers and Families and the Louisville Recovery Community Connection, the program addresses a painful reality: addiction often damages relationships with children most.

"A lot of damage has been done usually when they get sober with their family and their children," said Lindsay West-Curci, executive director of the Louisville Recovery Community Connection. "We have to learn how to be a parent again and that can be very frustrating."

That's where the peer support makes all the difference. Fathers connect with others facing similar challenges, learning from those who've walked the path before them.

Dante Bartleson knows the struggles firsthand. His children became his motivation to get sober and stay committed to recovery, even after losing a son to overdose in 2021. Through focusing on his health and wellness, he stayed on track and rebuilt connections with his kids.

Now he shares his story to inspire other fathers. "I just want to be a shot of hope and encouragement that it's never too late to change your life, but you have to take care of yourself first," Bartleson said.

The Ripple Effect

The workshop's organizers see each father's recovery as an investment that extends far beyond one person. "We believe that if we invest in the father, we invest in the family, which invests in neighborhood, which invests in the entire community, city and state," said Shelton McElory, regional engagement agent with the Commonwealth Center for Fathers and Families.

That philosophy transforms individual healing into community strength. When fathers get the support they need to be honest, open up, and learn from mentors, their chances of success multiply.

Bartleson plans to continue speaking out and advocating for others in recovery, proving that second chances can create lasting change.