WEST CHESTER, PA — Arts Holding Hands and Hearts, Inc. (AHHAH) is set to host its Restorative Justice Open House on Thursday, July 24, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at the Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center, located at 226 N. High Street in West Chester. The event will feature the premiere of Invisible No More, a compelling short documentary created by youth participants in AHHAH’s Restorative Justice Filmmaking Program.
The evening promises to be a celebration of storytelling, art, and community, showcasing the work of young filmmakers and photographers alongside the Justice Restored 3.0 traveling art exhibit. Attendees can engage directly with the youth whose creative efforts brought the documentary to life while enjoying music, food, and opportunities to connect.
“This is more than a film screening—it’s a celebration of transformation, truth-telling, and youth leadership,” said Jan Michener, Executive Director of AHHAH. “Our youth are reclaiming their narratives and becoming powerful agents of change through restorative practices and creative expression. Their stories deserve to be seen, heard, and supported.”
The program includes remarks from key figures such as Chester County Probation leaders Lindsay Walton and Jason Torres, and filmmaker Sean Taylor, among others. Commissioner Josh Maxwell will also attend to offer his remarks. Notably, the film’s creation was supported by contributions from sponsors including the PA Commission on Crime and Delinquency, Chester County Commissioners, and PECO Powering the Arts.
Filmmaker Alyssa Jade, who worked closely with the youth participants, highlighted the impact of their work. “Collaborating with these young people was an honor. They opened their lives, their struggles, and their hearts to tell stories that truly matter. Invisible No More is a testament to their courage.”
The Open House will also feature a live digital interaction for attendees to reflect on the film, certificates for the student filmmakers, and opportunities to support the next phase of AHHAH’s filmmaking program. Looking ahead, the organization plans to develop Invisible No More: Part 2.
Justin Brown, CEO of JB Trainings and the event’s Master of Ceremonies, emphasized the importance of AHHAH’s initiatives. “What AHHAH is doing through restorative filmmaking is what every community needs—real conversations, real youth leadership, and real investment in justice. They are giving the youth a voice and making them responsible for their own futures.”
The event is free and open to the public, with options for attendees to donate or sponsor future projects, ensuring the continued success of programs that inspire and empower youth.
Event Details:
- What: AHHAH Restorative Justice Open House
- When: July 24, 2025, 5:30-7:30 PM
- Where: Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center, 226 N. High Street, West Chester
“This program is about more than just teaching media skills,” Michener shared. “It’s about showing these kids they are seen, heard, and deeply valued. We’ve seen kids who arrive defeated and withdrawn leave with confidence and connection. It’s truly life changing.”
Discover how AHHAH is making a difference! RSVP, explore the flyer, and learn more about their impactful programs by visiting www.AHHAH.org today.
By participating in the Restorative Justice Open House or supporting AHHAH’s programs, community members can help give youth the opportunity to change their futures and forge new paths of hope and success.
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