Local educational outreach program Ideas Into Action, which was founded last year by local Jessica Boylston-Fagonde, presents free educational talks every month, with topics that range from women’s rights to environmental concerns. And this month they’re adding another day because the topic, the Turning Leaf Project, is so damn important.
On Sept. 20-21 Ideas Into Action sits down with students and graduates of the Turning Leaf Project, an organization that helps local men at high risk of incarceration prevent reoffending. The discussions are free and open to the public and advance registration is required for Wednesday and Thursday.
Earlier this year CP news reporter Dustin Waters wrote about Turning Leaf’s students, including Kadeem Gaddist, an aspiring musician.
“Music makes me feel like I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing,” he says.
After his time in the program, Gaddist has learned to identify any risky thoughts that may arise and consider the consequences of going back to hustling.
“I’ve got a bit of foundation to me now. I don’t put myself in risky situations,” he says.
During these two Ideas Into Action sessions attendees will hear the candid stories of Turning Leaf grads who will talk about how they ended up in prison, the difficulties they faced when re-entering society, and the positive impact Turning Leaf has had on them.
Learn more about Turning Leaf at turningleafproject.org.
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UPDATE: Please note the new dates of these talks, reflected in the event entries.