Eddie Bocanegra was involved in gangs. And he was incarcerated. Then he turned his life around, went to graduate school at the University of Chicago, and has dedicated his life to helping young men most at risk of picking up a gun or getting shot. He’s now running READI, and it’s about kind words, job training, and the mental health services needed for someone who’s grown up only knowing the trauma associated with watching loved ones die from guns and drugs. It’s hard work. But it’s proving successful, and it needs more funds to continue.

Plus despite passing legislation that would put a progressive income tax on the ballot in 2020, lawmakers in Springfield still have a lot on their plate before the spring session ends on Friday. We’ll get an update on their progress