Friday Jan 22, 7-9:30 pm
RSVP to transitionpaloalto@gmail.com for the Zoom link

This month Fourth Friday/Film of Vision and Hope starts a new film series on transforming the criminal justice system. This month the series will start with Like Any Other Kid, which provides a rare glimpse into the use of non-punitive, therapeutic programs to change behavior and help youth re-enter their communities.

Special guest Paul Bocanegra will lead a discussion following the film. At age 17, Paul was sentenced to life without parole for involvement in a gang related crime. He served 25 years in adult institutions including 12 in solitary confinement. Released just a few years ago, Paul is now a member of the San Mateo County Juvenile Justice Commission as well as a drug and alcohol counselor and a co-founder of the ReEvolution Group non-profit. Paul will share his remarkable story and his passion for reforming the juvenile justice system.

Like Any Other Kid follows the intimate relationships between incarcerated youth and staff in three unique facilities across the country over the course of three years. Based on the Missouri approach, where love and structure — instead of punishment — are used, these programs guide and teach youth how to take responsibility for themselves.

Through scenes of conflict, vulnerability, reflection, commitment, and joy, the film highlights both the challenges and the promise of humane approaches to working with troubled youth. As the youth transform before our eyes. Like Any Other Kid shows us the great potential of these youth if we let them be just that: like any other kid. See the Trailer…