June 14, 2024 By Athena Dawson
The Fortune Society is set to host its 11th Annual Creative Arts Festival at Socrates Sculpture Park 32-01 Vernon Boulevard in Astoria on Saturday, June 22nd, from 1 to 6 p.m. The non-profit organization is one of the nation’s leading re-entry service and advocacy organizations for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals.
Locals can expect a day filled with family-friendly activities and art showcases, including works from dozens of formerly incarcerated community members who have been impacted by the justice system. Festivities include workshops, live music, spoken word performances, and food from local Queens vendors.
The free event will also feature educational workshops from community activist organizations, including Freedom Agenda, a member-led project dedicated to organizing people and communities directly impacted by incarceration.
The People’s Bus, a bus formerly used to transport detainees on Rikers Island, will also be featured at the event. The People’s Bus has partnered with the Department of Cultural Affairs and the Public Artist in Residency program to transform the vehicle into a community center on wheels, bringing engaging civic-centered activities to communities across New York City.
Founded in 1967, the foundation’s goal is to guide incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals toward becoming positive contributing members of society. The Fortune Society works with professionals of varying diverse backgrounds to connect on a personal level with participants of the program The Fortune Society’s service centers and housing residencies support thousands of individuals across New York City.