Union Avenue

In a city where social workers play more of a part in assisting the mentally ill out in the field, a social worker and an infamous police officer have to settle their differences and work as a team to make it through the night. Inspired by America's drug crisis and the petitioned idea that social workers play more of a part in situations involving people with mental health and substance-misuse issues. The film showcases this idea and how it could very much unfold if it were to take place in the deteriorating heart of L.A..

"Union Avenue" was one of four projects selected from over 30 proposals by the heads of CSU Northridge's Film Program to be produced as an official CSUN Senior Thesis Film. Gino and his team successfully raised $22,000 through independent fundraising efforts. When additional support was needed, the project was awarded the Golden Globe Foundation's Hackman Grant for $18,000, providing the crucial funds to bring their vision to life.