Lecturer
Developing Community Connections
Charlie Grady is a dynamic lecturer known for his ability to connect with audiences through real-world experience and authentic storytelling. As a Re-Entry Champion, Trainer, and Bridge Builder, he focuses on raising awareness and fostering meaningful dialogue around community, justice, and second chances. His lectures inspire action, encourage understanding, and equip individuals and organizations with the tools to create lasting change.
About Charlie as a Lecturer
A message that inspires reflection and action.
Charlie Grady brings decades of real-world experience to the stage, delivering lectures that resonate with audiences from all walks of life.
He has spoken for:
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Schools
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Community organizations
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Law enforcement agencies
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National conferences
Always tailoring his message to meet the unique needs of his listeners.
bridging lived experience with practical insight
Drawing from his extensive background in law enforcement, community engagement, and reentry advocacy, Charlie is able to connect theory to reality in a way that is both relatable and actionable. His lectures do not just inform, they inspire participants to reflect, engage, and take meaningful steps toward positive change.
Core Lecture Topics
Charlie’s lectures focus on real issues that shape communities and impact lives. Each presentation is designed to educate, challenge perspectives, and spark meaningful conversations. His core topics include:
Re-entry & Second Chance programs
Addressing the challenges people face after incarceration and offering strategies that promote successful reintegration.
Community Connections
Strengthening relationships among individuals, organizations, and institutions to build healthier, safer communities.
Trust Between Community and Institutions
Highlighting pathways to create authentic partnerships between law enforcement, organizations, and the communities they serve.
The Conneticut Hall Of Change
Charlie Grady - CEO & Founder
Charlie Grady founded the Connecticut Hall of Change, the state’s first traveling exhibit honoring the accomplishments of formerly incarcerated individuals. Through this initiative, he annually celebrates the “Great Eight,” men and women who have turned their lives around and made significant community contributions. What began in Connecticut is now poised to expand to other states, reflecting Charlie’s broader mission of recognition, redemption, and transformative change. (cthallofchange.org)
Winner 2024
Wilmers Integrity Prize
In 2024, Charles Grady was honored with the Robert G. Wilmers Integrity Prize, a prestigious national award that recognizes individuals in the United States who demonstrate exceptional integrity through their actions and advocacy. The Prize, named in memory of Robert G. Wilmers, the late chairman and CEO of M&T Bank, is awarded annually to leaders who enrich their communities through service, vision, and integrity.
Charles received the $50,000 award for his groundbreaking work as founder and CEO of Hang Time, a nonprofit organization that empowers and reintegrates formerly incarcerated individuals through safe spaces, mentorship, and community engagement
Reintegrating the Formerly Incarcerated
Real Talk with Respect
Watch this candid conversation where Charles Grady and others address the challenges and opportunities of reentering society after incarceration. Through personal stories and expert insight, the video highlights pathways to second chances, community support, and policy reform.
