EMERGE Connecticut?

Last night's documentary screening at Fairfield University was more than just an event—it was a powerful moment of shared empathy, truth, and collective reflection... Attendees witnessed raw and unfiltered stories of resilience, as formerly incarcerated individuals shared their journeys of rebuilding their lives against the odds. The discussion that followed, led by the incredible Dr. Don Sawyer, was thought-provoking, emotional, and a call to action for all in the room. From the powerful testimonies to the deep conversations sparked by our panel, one thing was clear: change begins with awareness, understanding, and a commitment to breaking cycles of incarceration. If you missed this event, don’t worry—this is just the beginning. Follow EMERGE Connecticut? to stay updated on future events, and ways you can support our mission to empower members of our community as they return home, and create real opportunities for change. Let’s keep the conversation going. Let’s continue to show up. Because together, we can build a more just and equitable future. #EMERGEConnecticut #AsWeEMERGE #CriminalJusticeReform #SecondChances #ReentryMatters #Fairfield #Fairfieldcounty #Connecticut #NewHaven #fairfielduniversity #college #educationmeetsreality

Tomorrow night, we come together for an unforgettable screening of As We EMERGE: Monologues of the Formerly Incarcerated—a powerful documentary that challenges perspectives and amplifies voices too often unheard. If you haven’t already, now is the time to invite a friend or colleague to join you! ?? Date: February 25 ?? Time: 6:00–8:00 PM ?? Location: Fairfield University ?? Free tickets here: https://lnkd.in/dWV-FYQ7 ?? Watch the trailer: https://lnkd.in/emgC5DZr

Tomorrow night, we come together for an unforgettable screening of As We EMERGE: Monologues of the Formerly Incarcerated—a powerful documentary that challenges perspectives and amplifies voices too often unheard. If you haven’t already, now is the time to invite a friend or colleague to join you! ?? Date: February 25 ?? Time: 6:00–8:00 PM ?? Location: Fairfield University ?? Free tickets here: https://lnkd.in/dWV-FYQ7 ?? Watch the trailer: https://lnkd.in/emgC5DZr

Some stories have the power to shift perspectives and challenge what we think we know.?As We EMERGE: Monologues of the Formerly Incarcerated?does just that—amplifying the voices of those who have a documentary that elevates the voices of those who have fought to reclaim their lives despite overwhelming obstacles. This isn’t just a film—it’s an invitation to listen, to stand in solidarity, and to be part of a community committed to understanding, healing, and change. ???Date:?February 25 ???Time:?6:00–8:00 PM ???Location:?Fairfield University ???Why You Should Be There: ? Hear real stories of perseverance and transformation. ? Witness a raw, thought-provoking panel discussion with individuals featured in the film. ? Be part of a community dedicated to breaking cycles of incarceration and creating real change. Moderated by Dr. Don Sawyer We are honored to have?Dr. Don Sawyer—educator, scholar, and advocate—moderating this impactful conversation. As the Vice President for Equity and Inclusion at Fairfield University, Dr. Sawyer has dedicated his career to addressing issues of race, education, and social justice. His expertise and passion for amplifying marginalized voices will guide this discussion, ensuring an evening of deep reflection and meaningful dialogue. Come, listen, reflect, and leave inspired. Because change starts with understanding—and understanding starts with showing up. Don’t miss this unforgettable night! Grab your free tickets here: https://lnkd.in/dWV-FYQ7

What does it mean to?EMERGE? To rise from adversity. To move through challenges and step into possibility. To transform, heal, and come into view—stronger and more determined than before. On?Tuesday, February 25th, from 6:00–8:00 PM at Fairfield University, we invite you to witness this journey of?As We EMERGE: Monologues of the Formerly Incarcerated—a powerful?intersection of art and social impact. This screening is more than just a film; it’s a?marriage between storytelling and communal reflection—where the arts serve as a catalyst for change, and the voices of individuals that have been justice-impacted reveal raw and personal experiences of what it has meant to them to emerge. Through the storytelling in the documentary,?and a thought-provoking panel led by Dr. Don C. Sawyer III?(Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion- Fairfield University), we’ll explore how safe spaces, opportunity, and connection pave the way for healing and transformation. Please register and invite others who are passionate about the arts, storytelling, and creating opportunities for others: https://lnkd.in/dWV-FYQ7 Come ready to engage, reflect, and be part of a movement that blends art with action. We look forward to seeing you there.

This upcoming community documentary screening at Fairfield University is an urgent call to action as our organization expands into the city of Bridgeport. The documentary screening is a steadfast reminder to all of us that we must rally together, create opportunities for the most vulnerable among us, and connect justice-impacted individuals to life-changing resources. Event Details: Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2025 Time: 6:00–8:00 PM Location: Fairfield University (registration required: https://lnkd.in/dWV-FYQ7) Your presence along with your personal invitations to others in your network who are passionate about reform, community, and building equitable pathways to success are crucial. This evening will feature our "documentary “As We EMERGE: Monologues of the Formerly Incarcerated.” If you haven’t seen this heart-moving documentary yet, it showcases original pieces from the powerful monologues that took place in 2023 along with updates on the journeys of participants who have bravely shared their stories of resilience and transformation. These stories reveal the impact of creating safe spaces where individuals can heal, grow, and thrive after incarceration. Following the film, @Don C. Sawyer III., Vice President for Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging at Fairfield University, will host a dynamic panel discussion. His expertise and unwavering commitment to justice will challenge us to think deeply, engage authentically, and explore what it takes to create meaningful, authentic, and lasting change. Your attendance and outreach to others in Fairfield County can help us amplify the message of reform and hope, ensuring that this final screening leaves a lasting legacy of impact.

As the year draws to a close, we’ve been fortunate to reflect on the remarkable achievements for EMERGE Connecticut Inc. this year, and it’s all thanks to you! The image below captures our impact numbers from our 2024 Zine, and we are too ecstatic at the increased success in how we’ve managed to serve and support our crewmembers and program alumni. There’s been a 15% increase in crewmembers exiting to full-time employment opportunities, and this year we’ve managed to enroll our largest cohort yet. Our supporters’ contributions have been deeply transformative, aiding us in breaking down barriers for our crewmembers as they strive to rebuild their lives. Because of the generosity of our network, our alumni have gained meaningful employment, have had access to programs that are healing and promote personal and professional development, and have also strengthened the relationships that they have with support systems. It’s very clear to us, that together, we’re not just changing lives—we’re creating opportunities that ripple outward, fostering hope and progress for those working tirelessly toward a brighter future. So with such success in New Haven this year, our vision is to bring EMERGE’s life-changing programs to Bridgeport, empowering even more individuals and families with the tools they need to thrive. To make this vision a reality, we need your continued support.?Every dollar you contribute helps us take one step closer to creating lasting change for individuals, families, and communities. Thank you for being an essential part of our mission! Let’s continue building brighter futures—together. We hope we can count on you to help us reach our expansion goals and extend this incredible work even further. If you’d like to learn more about our impact, click the following link to read our zine: https://lnkd.in/eCQwuNfm