Project 180, a prisoner reentry nonprofit group that helps men and women make the difficult transition from incarceration to the community, is proud to present a powerful and moving documentary film called The Light They Cast.

The film chronicles the journey of eight men as they navigate the complex realities of reentry after incarceration. These individuals bravely share their experiences, shedding light on the often-overlooked challenges they face upon reentering society. The documentary provides an unflinching look at their struggles, from their first week out of prison to moments of triumph as they achieve sobriety, secure employment and rebuild their lives.

Barbara Richards founded Project 180 in 2008 when she saw that there were so few resources in Sarasota County for individuals who were transitioning from incarceration into the community. From a staff of one, the group has now grown to include 4 full-time employess, one part-timer and between 18 and 24 people who are deeply involved in the organization.

“The goal for Project 180 is to reduce poverty, homelessness, unemployment and criminal behavior among formerly incarcerated citizens. We are having some pretty good luck with that given that we have a residential program, which is fairly small with only 17 beds, giving each individual the attention they need,” Richards explains. “We have a program called First Week Out, which is a little misleading because we stay in touch with people for months and sometimes years after they're released from prison. Incarceration is a life interrupter and you pretty much lose everything while you're incarcerated, so it's important to have someone there to advocate for the individual.”

As many incarcerated people are also also afflicted with the disease of addiction, Richards and her team focus a lot on recovery. Project 180 currently has three homes, all in low crime, working class neighborhoods in Sarasota County. Through Project 180, formerly incarcerated men find the guidance and community they need to succeed, proving that with the right resources and a network of people who believe in them, they can overcome the stigma and barriers that often accompany their pasts. Since 2018, Project 180 and its Residential Program have prevented an estimated 70,000 crimes.

The Light They Cast is produced by Miles Larsen and Janice Shelton. It will premiere on Friday, October 11, 11am-1pm at Michael's On East. Tickets are $45 each and include lunch.

To learn more about Project 180 and The Light They Cast, visit www.project180reentry.org/. 

Pictured: Barbara Richards and her team hold an annual lecture series called Strong Voices to educate the public about impacts of the reentry process on the community.

For ticket information click here.

Easterseals Southwest Florida is excited to welcome the public to our Open House and Dedication Ceremony for the newly renovated Happiness House of Easterseals Southwest Florida, 350 Braden Ave., Sarasota, FL 34243. The event will take place on Tuesday, September 17, from 9:00 to 11:30 am. The event will kick off with a formal dedication ceremony featuring remarks from Easterseals leadership, local dignitaries and community members who have supported this project. This transformation wouldn't be possible without the expertise of Willis A. Smith Construction, the innovative vision of Hall Darling Design Studio and the support of Congressman Vern Buchanan. Guests will also be invited to tour the upgraded facilities, which are designed to better serve and keep safe, individuals with disabilities and their families. The renovation of Happiness House reflects Easterseals’ commitment to providing comprehensive, life-changing support in an environment that fosters growth and happiness. The updates include improved accessibility features and refreshed program space, creating a welcoming, safe and empowering atmosphere for everyone.

Tuesday, September 17, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 am, 350 Braden Ave., Sarasota. Dedication ceremony, meet and greet, ribbon cutting and guided tours, 941-355-7637 or events@easterseals-swfl.org 

Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties (BGCSDC) is proud to announce that the national affiliate - Boys & Girls Clubs of America - has awarded the organization’s Keystone Club at the Roy McBean Boys & Girls Club 1st place for their National Project, "Reaching Equity in Our Diversity," as well as Keystone Club of the Year at this year’s National Keystone Conference. Additionally, Geoffry Gilot, Teen Program Director at the Roy McBean Boys & Girls Club, was honored as Keystone Club Advisor of the Year for his outstanding leadership, dedication, and remarkable positive impact on Club members, encouraging personal growth and skill development. For more information about Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s national partnership with the Papa John’s Foundation, visit The Papa John's Foundation - Boys & Girls Clubs of America (bgca.org). 

Disasters have a significant impact on both individuals and communities. In addition to destroying homes and infrastructure, they create stress, anxiety, and trauma. Hear from survivors about strategies for emotional support, healing, and rebuilding community following a disaster and during recovery. This event will be held through Zoom and live-streamed on Facebook. Please register on Eventbrite. 

To register click here