The Reentry Project, a coalition of 15 local media organizations—including The Citizen—has spent the last year chronicling the issues and solutions raised when Philadelphians try to reenter society after time spent in prison. The project included dozens of articles and shows, a handful of events and a coming together of media outlets, advocacy groups and formerly incarcerated to explore how Philadelphia can better serve those who served time—to make a better city for everyone.

The project culminates this evening, with The Reentry Blueprint: Stories and Solutions from the Formerly Incarcerated, a free public event that will provide a platform for formerly incarcerated people to present effective models that address the challenges facing people with criminal histories.

The evening will highlight six “Lightning Talks” (short Ted-style presentations) by formerly incarcerated individuals on topics such as harnessing the political power of the formerly incarcerated, crime and violence reduction, mentorship, entrepreneurship, and trauma informed care.

Following the presentations, the audience will have a chance to ask questions of presenters. The event will conclude with closing remarks and discussion of a “Blueprint” that we can hold each other accountable to relating to reentry in the city of Philadelphia.

The event at The Franklin Institute is sold out. But you can watch a live stream of it below, starting at 6 p.m.: