"That's my number one. I'll do anything in the world for him," said Dixon.
Statewide data shows approximately 30 percent of children in the foster system reunite with their birth parents.
Dixon went through a variety of programs through the State Health Department in order to reunite with his son and last year, received full custody.
"He's a smart kid and, I hope to show him the better ways to live life instead of the troubles and the problems I went through," said Dixon. "I'm pointing them in the right direction."
According to Governor Josh Stein's Proclamation, more than 1,200 children returned to their families in 2025.
Statewide data show there's a 25 percent reunification rate in Wake County, 20 percent in Durham, 67 percent in Person, and 17 percent in Franklin.
DHHS says it's a journey not only for the families but also the agency.
"We know that sometimes things happen in families, and it could be the worst day of their lives to have their children removed. We are there for the safety of children," said Tanza Moye with DHHS' Special Services Unit. "We provide services, referrals, all that is needed, wraparound services, to ensure that the child is safe, returning home. And then we give support to the families while the child is back in the home until we are able to go to court and close the case."