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PROJECT OVERVIEW: 

Our People Rise is an altruistic project about radical change that combines the production of a documentary film and online learning course, designed to help people rise up from adversity. 

Backstory
From the depths of homelessness, addiction and mental illness AJ Lovewins has emerged not just as a survivor, but as a community leader and inspiration for others as he continues his journey of growth. 

His remarkable 10 year transformation from devastation to purpose, encapsulates the essence of human resilience and possibility.

Against staggering odds, AJ resurrected his life, channeling his experiences into the creation of a nonprofit in service to the homeless and later, a burgeoning film career. 

His current project, is a continuation to his commitment to help others;  

Our People Rise documentary, and educational online course, is designed to do more than tell a story; it’s a beacon of hope and a toolkit for empowerment aimed at those who have faced similar battles. 

THE FILM

In “Our People Rise” AJ Lovewins, and the subjects and experts in the film, stand as a testament to the power of personal transformation and showcases the profound impact that turning personal trials into a force of good can have on us all.

As AJ narrates and interviews individuals through his unique lens of rising from homelessness, he takes us on a raw and inspiring  journey into the lives of a diverse cross section of Americans who have risen above devastation in the face of systemic barriers. 

From war veterans, to sexual abuse survivors, to people devastated by covid and disease, mass shootings, natural disasters and more, we learn the attitudes and resources, teachings and tools that helped these individuals rise back up from devastation. 

This film is not just a chronicle of survival; it’s a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who, against all odds, find a way to forge paths of success and fulfillment despite the broken systems that surround them.

 

THE FILMMAKER

AJ Lovewins, is a multifaceted talent: photographer, producer, director and writer, who began his career in Los Angeles. He has worked on countless indie films, and as an actor, screenwriter, and producer. AJ was the original writer on “The Bang Bang Club” based on a true story about War Photographers and founded Light Venture Films.

After overcoming homelessness and addiction, which disrupted his career AJ went on to transform his life. He founded the non profit Harmonic Humanity with the support of Grammy winning musicians to aid the homeless among other altruistic pursuits.

AJ is a certified counselor, and today a promising author, and speaker.

Currently a growing community of supporters are supporting AJ in launching Our People Rise project to empower Americans who’s lives have been devastated.

“Our People Rise is a project that breaks barriers, transforms lives, and fosters a community of empowered individuals.”

 

Producer Michael Phillip

AJ  and community are joined by long time friend Michael Phillip a producer, writer, director with more than 30 years of experience and insider knowledge of Hollywood and the industry. His recently produced films include EXMAS (2023) with Leighton Meester and Robbie Amell, M MARRY KILL with Lucy Hale and Ginny Gardner, DEAR DAVID with Augustus Prew and Justin Long, PUPPY LOVE with Lucy Hale and Grant Gustin, THE DOORMAN (2020), starring Ruby Rose and Jean Reno, DISTURBING THE PEACE (2020), starring Guy Pearce, ESCAPE THE FIELD (2021), 1UP (2022), and MY FAKE BOYFRIEND (2022).

 

“Our People Rise” documentary, will be funded by Our People Rise LLC by film financiers, with a $750,000 budget, with the goal of creating a high-quality production that major streamers will welcome and distribute.

Director of Photography,  Bob Gillies 

This will also allow the film to become an ongoing source revenue for the non profit. 

The film  will work alongside its nonprofit extension, Our People Rise 510(c)(3), which this  crowdfunding campaign is helping to raise funds for through which we will offer the online educational course and supporting programatic elements.

The documentary will raise awareness and funds, for the 501c3 as well, directing attention and resources to the nonprofit.

 

Our People Rise is forgoing ahead due to the energy and dedication of a passionate group of volunteers.

From imaginative creatives, regional film crews, compassionate therapists and life coaches, invigorating motivational speakers, transformative coaches, nurturing healers, and leading lights in the human potential movement and more. 

Together with these tireless warriors on the front lines and the subjects who will be courageously sharing thir stories in the film Our People Rise will aid those in our society most profoundly impacted by life’s challenges. Rise with us in making a meaningful difference!

The documentary and online course, will be enriched with insights from eminent coaches in the human potential field. This dual approach of film and course will address the gaps in traditional support systems, offering people practical pathways to rebound and thrive in life.

The project is seeking to engage experts whose personal and professional trajectories mirror individuals who have transcended human hardship and subsequently emerged as leaders in advocating for resilience and empowerment.

Photo by AJ Lovewins, Life Coach, Sifu Robert Bergman

THE NON PROFIT & ONLINE EDUCATIONAL COURSE 

“Our People Rise” will uniquely transcend the screen to become a non profit and transformative educational experience, offering a complimentary online course that distills the film’s profound inspiration and wisdom into practical, empowering tools for change.

This course not only equips individuals with the strategies needed to navigate life’s harshest challenges but also connects them with a vibrant online community of like-minded peers.

Together, participants will have the unique opportunity to learn directly from experts and the inspirational figures featured in the documentary, gaining unparalleled access to life-altering strategies and resources.

Too often transformative teachings are bundled and sold for thousands of dollars via workshops and online courses out of reach of everyday Americans . This initiative promises to be an invaluable journey towards personal growth and empowerment, making the lessons of resilience and triumph accessible to all that desire it.

Photo by AJ Lovewins

“Our People Rise is not a descent into darkness; it’s a profound exploration of the transformative journey that emerges from the depths of despair.”

Photo by AJ Lovewins

“Our People Rise aims to craft a compelling soundtrack and cinematic masterpiece that enhances the narratives of its subjects, using artistic expression as a metaphor to highlight the collective journey of transformation experienced by those featured.”

 

WHY THIS MATTERS

It’s not solely about the filmmakers rise from homelessness and continued journey of service; it’s a broader narrative on us all overcoming systemic failures and personal devastation.

Storytelling and education have been pivotal in driving social change and personal growth, offering new perspectives and fostering empathy and understanding.

By sharing these stories of triumph over adversity, this initiative will illuminate the often-unrealized value in those marginalized by society’s shortcomings—be it through homelessness, mental health struggles, addiction, or trauma.

This film seeks to remind us that we are all valuable and vulnerable, and of a crucial lesson, that is often those who have fallen the furthest, bring home the most potent medicine to share with our society, be it surviving cancer, war, disaster, homelessness, addiction, etc..

Photo by AJ Lovewins

At its core, this project is a testament to the indomitable spirit within each person and a call to action for all of us to recognize, value, and support one another in our journeys.

 

Our Journey Together: Building the Future of “Our People Rise”

As we embark on this transformative journey with “Our People Rise”, we find ourselves at the threshold of making a profound impact. This documentary and educational program isn’t just a project; it’s a beacon of hope, resilience, and community empowerment. To bring this vision to life, we need your support, and we believe in being transparent and upfront about our financial roadmap.

Why $100,000? Only The First Step for 2024

Our immediate goal is to raise $100,000 through this crowdfunding campaign. But this is just the beginning, the first of four crowdfunding campaigns we plan to launch in 2024. This initial phase is critical; it lays the foundational stone for our non-profit, Our People Rise, allowing us to kickstart the online educational programs and commence the production of a documentary that’s not just watched but experienced and lived.

The Bigger Picture: A $600,000 Vision

Our comprehensive budget for 2024 is set at $600,000. This ambitious target is a reflection of our commitment to quality, impact, and accessibility. We envision a project that breaks barriers, transforms lives, and fosters a community of empowered individuals. To achieve this, we’re diversifying our fundraising approach beyond crowdfunding.

Grants, Private Donors, Events, and Merchandise: A Multi-Faceted Approach

Grants: We are rigorously researching and applying for grants that align with our mission. These grants will help us secure significant funding while ensuring that our project’s ethos resonates on a broader scale.

Private Donors: We’re reaching out to philanthropists and private donors who share our vision of empowering lives through storytelling and education. Their generous contributions will play a pivotal role in scaling our impact.

Events: Engagement and community are at the heart of “Our People Rise.” We plan to host events that not only raise funds but also bring our community closer, sharing stories, successes, and the journey ahead.

Merchandise: Inspired by the incredible stories we’re bringing to light, we will create a line of merchandise that captures the spirit of resilience and transformation. Profits from these sales will directly support our project, making each item a token of your invaluable support.

Please note we will be thanking donors in our own way and are not offering perks at this time so we can focus on people who truly want to contribute and focus our energies on the work ahead. 

Your Role in This Journey

By contributing to our campaign, you’re not just donating; you’re joining a movement. You’re laying the groundwork for a project that promises to enlighten, inspire, and transform. Every dollar raised, every story shared, brings us closer to a world where resilience is celebrated, and empowerment is accessible to all.

We pledge to keep you informed, engaged, and inspired as we navigate this journey together. Your support, whether through contributions, sharing our story, or simply believing in our cause, is the fuel that drives us forward.

Thank you for considering to be a part of “Our People Rise.” Together, we can turn adversity into triumph, despair into hope, and individual stories into a collective legacy of resilience.

All donations are 100% Tax Deductible 

 

Embracing Every Form of Support: The Power of In-Kind Donations

As we journey together to bring “Our People Rise” to life, we recognize that support comes in many forms. Beyond financial contributions, we are also welcoming in-kind donations with open arms. But what exactly are in-kind donations, and how do they make a difference?

In-Kind Donations: Beyond Monetary Contributions

In-kind donations are non-monetary gifts that can play a crucial role in our project’s success. These contributions can range from professional services, such as film editing or web design, to physical items like camera equipment or office supplies. In essence, any product or service that can be utilized in the creation, promotion, or operation of “Our People Rise” is invaluable to us.

How Your In-Kind Support Helps

Each in-kind contribution directly supports our mission by reducing operational costs, enhancing the quality of our documentary and educational programs, and enriching the overall project. Whether it’s a piece of equipment that elevates our film’s production value, expert advice that sharpens our educational curriculum, or promotional assistance that amplifies our message, every in-kind donation brings us closer to realizing our vision.

Joining Hands in Every Way

We welcome in-kind support with gratitude and enthusiasm, recognizing it as a testament to the diverse ways our community can come together for a common cause. If you have a service, skill, or item you believe can aid “Our People Rise”, we’d be honored to hear from you. Together, we can harness a collective strength that transcends monetary support, weaving a tapestry of solidarity, creativity, and empowerment.

Your Role in This Transformative Journey

Your willingness to contribute, in any form, signifies a shared belief in our mission and a commitment to making a tangible impact. In-kind donations not only provide essential resources but also foster a sense of shared ownership and participation in the project’s success.

We invite you to join us, in spirit and in action, as we rise together to inspire, educate, and transform lives through “Our People Rise”. Every contribution, be it monetary, in-kind, or through spreading the word, is a step toward a future where everyone has the tools to overcome adversity and thrive.

Together we Rise.