A Work & Reentry EXPERIENCE
Presented by
We give individuals a platform to share their stories of trauma and their resilient paths forward, working to tear down barriers to stigma and communication, and in doing so carve a path for others hoping for a better tomorrow,”
Dominick Farinacci, Musician
When the bell rings and an opportunity like this comes up – am I ready? This was a chance for me to speak not just for myself, but to inspire countless other people to lift up their own unique stories. Sharing my story lets me bring a voice to the voiceless – ‘if I can do it, you can to’ – so when that bell of opportunity rings – they are ready!”
Ronnie Cannon, Storyteller
What is A Work & Reentry EXPERIENCE?
Dominick Farinacci, international jazz artist, Cleveland native and co-creator of Modern Warrior LIVE, has partnered with Towards Employment to create a live performances in collaboration with TE Alumni with involvement in the criminal justice system who faced barriers to finding jobs and careers. This heart wrenching, inspirational and joyous Work and Reentry EXPERIENCE holds up the words of the four storytellers using Modern Warrior LIVE’s innovative and immersive model of storytelling, music, and multimedia.
Modern Warrior EXPERIENCE & Dominick Farinacci
Recipient of the 2022 Cleveland Arts Prize, a TED Speaker, and headliner in the 2024 Tri-C JazzFest Cleveland, Dominick Farinacci co-created the national touring production Modern Warrior LIVE, a production that provides a catalyst for meaningful conversation about stigma, mental health, post- traumatic growth, and resiliency. Using Modern Warrior LIVE’s innovative, integrated and immersive model of storytelling, music, and visual multimedia, the Modern Warrior EXPERIENCE is part of a series of storytelling collaborations that lift community stories of resonance and healing.
Meet the Storytellers
Ronnie Cannon
Ronnie Cannon is a respected member of the Cleveland community. He is a father, a colleague, sits on non-profit boards and serves on citywide initiatives. He is committed to making sure fellow Clevelanders know they are greater than their worst action. As a young person, Ronnie made a decision that influenced the trajectory of his life, and this experience continues to shape his actions, to the benefit of many. He came to Towards Employment in 2012 and advanced steadily – he is currently a member of the leadership Towards Employment team, serving as the Senior Manager of Community Engagement.
LaToria (Tori) Davis
Everybody has a story to tell.
And we don’t often look like what we’ve been through. When I was young, I dreamed of being a teacher – but that’s not me. I started off as a Housekeeper at University Hospitals, and I knew I wanted to grow. I got turned down 60 times for other opportunities. But I got turned down for a reason. When I got accepted as a community health worker – I knew this was the reason. I enjoy helping people, still teaching – but adults. You have to commit to your career growth. You have to be tenacious.
LaTonya Cliff
LaTonya Cliff is a Case Manager at Towards Employment working with young men and women, hoping that they can learn from their experiences and find the strength and connections needed to build a career. She knows firsthand how trauma, violence and abuse can lead to bad decisions and chaos, and as she listens to the younger participants and graduates of Towards Employment, her life and career journey provide a foundation she uses to provide council, understanding and inspiration.
Watch the Performances
