The Modesto Junior College Civic Engagement Project (CEP) invites the community to a free screening of the film ‘Making of a Gangsta’ on Thursday, Oct. 5, at 7 p.m. in Forum 110 on MJC’s East Campus, 435 College Ave., Modesto. The event is part of the CEP Fall Film and Lecture Series. Campus parking is available for $2 in student parking lots.

Through interviews with clinical psychologists, gang experts, and former gang members, ‘Making of a Gangsta’ presents viewers with stories of heartbreak and messages of healing, not glamorized media images. Emotional accounts of adverse childhood experiences and individuals shaped by pain, loss, rejection and distrust are disclosed in the film, which aims to reduce prejudice, inspire empathy, and raise hope by encouraging viewers to see beyond stereotypes.

MJC is excited to welcome the film’s director, Adam T. Ybarra, as the event’s guest speaker. Ybarra served as team chaplain for the Oakland Raiders and currently heads The Tenacious Group, which partners with youth organizations to promote purpose, hope, and vision. Other guest speakers include a correctional supervisor at Juvenile Hall in Modesto and a Stanislaus County youth development facilitator.

There will also be an opportunity for questions and answers.

For more information on MJC’s Civic Engagement Project or the Fall Film and Lecture Series, contact Jason Wohlstadter, professor of English, at wohlstadterj@mjc.edu.