Canine CellMates, a nonprofit partnering with metro Atlanta justice systems in which they pair inmates charged with low-level crimes with dogs, hosted its inaugural graduation ceremony for Phase 1 of its Beyond the Bars initiative Dec. 16 at the new Canine CellMates facility in Cobb County. Beyond the Bars works in partnership with the district attorney's office to select eligible participants to participate post-release in a year-long rehabilitative program at Canine CellMates' facility, in lieu of further incarceration. Its mission is "utilizing shelter dogs to break the cycle of incarceration," and is dedicated to rescuing dogs and having a positive impact on incarcerated men. According to a news release, Beyond the Bars is one of the first pre-trial diversion/sentencing alternative programs in the country that incorporates rescue dogs into an out-of-custody rehabilitative program. Seven inmates completed the 90-day first phase, and since its inception in 2013, more than 400 men have completed the Canine CellMates program inside the Fulton County Jail, and about 160 dogs have been adopted into forever homes. With the opening of the new facility, the program has expanded to Cobb County. With Phase 1 complete, the dogs are able to go to their new homes, and the men will continue their participation in the program for nine more months. To donate, adopt or volunteer, or for more information on Canine CellMates, visit caninecellmates.org.