Thank You San Diego County Employees’ Charitable Organization

Our sincere thanks to the San Diego County Employees’ Charitable Organization for your grant of $998 to help fund the purchase of a new washer for our Alumni transitional sober-living house. Your support will enable us to provide our residents with a stable, comfortable and supportive living environment on their journey toward empowered long-term self-sufficiency.

We deeply appreciate CECO's support of our programs. Over the past ten years, we have received a total of six CECO grants totaling $14,706 to support Second Chance's programs helping people coming out of incarceration rebuild their lives. We are deeply grateful for your commitment to our program!

• April 2024

Celebrating Memories and Connections at the Youth Garden

The Second Chance Youth Garden Cohort 24, had an exceptional group of eager students who contributed to the garden in meaningful ways. Together, they planted passion fruit vines along the back fence, harvested produce, and worked at the farm stand. They also had a profound experience with the San Diego Food Alliance, where both alumni and current Cohort 24 members came together to explore food systems and share their stories.

From the very start, the energy and enthusiasm of our 16 participants were palpable. The Second Chance program fostered open and inspiring youth conversations, creating a safe space for everyone to express their thoughts and experiences.

The youth showed a strong interest in attending the upcoming Food Vision 2030 summit, aptly named "Connection." Their input was invaluable, enriching our discussions about food systems and offering insights into how we can further improve the Second Chance Youth Garden curriculum.

A particularly moving moment occurred during one of the gatherings when a young participant bravely opened up about his relationship with food, sharing a poignant memory of his mother's funeral. It was an emotional moment that resonated with everyone present. His friends in the group applauded his courage, celebrating his strength and vulnerability. He shared a touching story about his mother's spaghetti, expressing his regret for never learning her recipe and the special spices she used.

In honor of his mother, the garden's cooking class used tomatoes and herbs from the garden to create their own spaghetti sauce, incorporating the flavors the participant remembered from his late mother's special dish. After preparing the meal, the group gathered to enjoy it, celebrating the memory of the participant’s mother, a fellow cohort member’s birthday, and the way this meal brought everyone together.

“This gathering was a powerful and transformative experience on so many levels, and I am so grateful to have been a part of it,” said Daria Van Nice, Second Chance Youth Garden Program Manager.

It is truly wonderful to see how Second Chance participants not only advocate for a better world through food justice but also support one another in such beautiful ways, like memorializing one of their participant’s mother and a birthday through a shared meal.

Alex’s Impact Story

This week's Second Chance Month newsletter is dedicated to a journey of resilience, redemption, and remarkable transformation. Meet Alex Macias, Director of Operations and Housing and a shining example of the power of second chances. He is also a huge advocate for anyone who walks through our doors on Imperial Ave.

Born and bred in the heart of San Diego, Alex's life took twists and turns that led him to a point where he felt adrift, unable to steer the course of his own destiny. In the midst of his struggles, he found himself entangled with the law, a situation that could have defined his future if not for a whisper of hope called Second Chance.

Choosing Second Chance wasn't just a decision for Alex; it was a commitment to reclaiming his life. Stepping into our community, he was met with open arms and a sense of belonging he hadn't felt in years. Witnessing the transformative power of individuals with lived experiences ignited a fire within him—a fire fueled by the desire to not only rebuild his own life but to help others do the same.

In 2009, Alex graduated from Second Chance Job Readiness Training Class #128, armed with newfound determination and purpose. He wasted no time in immersing himself in the programs of Second Chance, recognizing that his entrepreneurial spirit and passion could be harnessed to effect change. Starting as a client service specialist for the Job Readiness Training Program, Alex soon became a driving force behind initiatives that uplifted and empowered our participants.

Over the years, he stepped into various leadership positions within Second Chance, each role a testament to his unwavering commitment to our mission. From earning many certifications, to overseeing sober living housing, to being a Director of Operations and becoming a member of our senior leadership team, Alex's dedication knew no bounds. But perhaps his greatest contribution was his ability to forge meaningful connections—with our participants, our partners, and our community at large.

Described by his peers as respectful, genuine, and understanding, Alex's impact extends far beyond the walls of our organization. A devoted father and family man, he finds joy in simple pleasures—rooting for his beloved Padres and Chargers, spending quality time with loved ones, and providing hope to those who need it most.

As we reflect on Alex's journey, let us be reminded that second chances are not just about forgiveness; they are about transformation. They are about recognizing the inherent worth and potential within each of us and embracing the opportunity to start anew.

Thank you, Alex, for embodying the spirit of Second Chance for the last 15 years and for reminding us all that no matter how dark the past, the future is always within our grasp.

Owen Saves Soles for Second Chance

Today, we're celebrating the inspiring story of Owen, a remarkable volunteer whose initiative, "Save Your Soles," has made a profound impact at Second Chance.

Owen's journey began during his freshman year at St. Augustine High School when he encountered a common dilemma: rapidly outgrowing his shoes. As an avid long-distance runner for his school's cross country and track team, his high-quality running shoes were no longer fitting due to his growth spurt. Recognizing the value of these gently used shoes, Owen embarked on a mission to repurpose them for those in need.

Through diligent research, Owen discovered One World Running, an organization in Colorado that distributes running shoes to individuals worldwide. Inspired by their mission, Owen began collecting not only his own running shoes but also reached out to his friends and community for donations. To his surprise, the response was overwhelming, with over 500 pairs of shoes collected within just two months.

As his efforts gained momentum, Owen realized there was a broader need beyond running shoes in his community. He expanded his outreach and connected with local organizations to understand their specific needs. Last year, Owen's dedication led to the collection of over 800 pairs of shoes, and this year, he has surpassed 1,000 pairs, benefiting not only One World Running but also local organizations like Second Chance.

Owen's collaboration with Second Chance was serendipitous. Upon learning about our need for professional shoes, he reached out to connect with us. His generous donation included shoes from a woman who wanted her late husband's footwear to find new purpose.

Attending a Job Readiness Training graduation ceremony, Owen witnessed firsthand the impact of his contributions as participants proudly wore the professional shoes he provided. For Owen, it's a rewarding experience knowing that his efforts are making a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Owen exemplifies the spirit of generosity and compassion that thrives within our community. His dedication to serving others is a testament to the power of individual action in creating positive change. We're immensely grateful for volunteers like Owen who embody the values of Second Chance and help us continue our mission to empower individuals towards a brighter future.

Ronnie’s Journey from Incarceration to Success!

We are thrilled to start off Second Chance month by sharing the inspiring journey of Ronnie, a remarkable individual who has overcome significant challenges to find success and stability through the Second Chance program.

Born and raised in the beautiful landscapes of Hawaii, Ronnie grew up as the youngest of three siblings in a military family. His father served as a petty officer, instilling discipline and a sense of duty in Ronnie from a young age. His mother, a business owner, added her own strength and resilience to the family dynamic.

Despite his promising beginnings, Ronnie's life took a dark turn during his college years. While studying engineering at the University of Hawaii, he became entangled in a dangerous addiction to meth. The addiction quickly consumed him, leading to financial ruin and strained relationships with his family.

With limited resources for support in Hawaii at the time, Ronnie made the bold decision to start anew in San Diego in 2010. However, his struggles continued as he found himself trapped in a cycle of addiction and incarceration. It wasn't until his last stint in prison at George Bailey Detention Facility that Ronnie realized he needed to make a change.

Enter Second Chance.

When he enrolled into one of Second Chance’s reentry programs, Ronnie found a community that offered him the resources and support he needed to turn his life around. He started treatment at CRASH then transitioned into the Second Chance reentry program in 2022. Through group sessions and maintaining sobriety, Ronnie started to believe in himself again.

Ronnie achieved a milestone by graduating from our Job Readiness Training program. Learning how to present himself as a justice-impacted individual empowered him to advocate for his future rather than dwell on his past. His newfound confidence paid off when he secured a job interview with MTS, impressing the CEO with his determination and professionalism despite wearing an ankle monitor.

When the MTS job didn't align with his reentry program hours, fate intervened when Ronnie was introduced to CassArrieta, a subcontractor for MTS. Today, Ronnie works as an operational engineer, laying pipes for the San Diego trolleys. His dedication and hard work have earned him four raises in the past year alone.

Ronnie's story serves as a beacon of hope for others who have faced similar struggles. He encourages fellow program participants to stay positive and believe in themselves, emphasizing that change is possible with dedication and perseverance.

Looking ahead, Ronnie sees himself continuing to mentor others within the Second Chance community. He plans to invest in his future by purchasing his first property and providing housing for friends he has made along the way.

Ronnie's journey is a testament to the transformative power of Second Chance. We are proud to have him as part of our family and look forward to witnessing his continued success.

Transformative Journey of Redemption: James’s Inspiring Story

James Roy stands as a pillar of support within the Central Drug Court program at Second Chance. As a Certified Peer Support Specialist, his profound understanding of the transformative impact his guidance has on participants stems from a deeply personal journey—he's walked the path of recovery himself.

James's journey through the Drug Court program at South Bay in 2018 was a turning point in his life. Faced with the prospect of 12 years in custody, he seized the opportunity presented by the program. It was a chance for redemption, but it would be a challenge.

At first, he grappled with uncertainty, not knowing if he'd be able to stay out of prison. But with an incredible legal team by his side, James found hope. His perseverance was remarkable, considering his numerous past incarcerations. The pivotal moment arrived about halfway through the Drug Court program, when something within him clicked, “I started to realize that I needed to be honest with myself,  I needed to face my fears and dig deep.” said Roy

His counselor urged James to confront his innermost struggles, pushing him to be honest with himself about his addiction and anger issues. For 28 long years, he battled addiction until he found solace in an amazing treatment team.

Prior to joining Second Chance, James maintained his sobriety while working for an esteemed restaurant group. His honesty about his journey impressed the owner, leading to significant responsibilities and personal growth. Then, in 2022, an opportunity arose at Second Chance—a Peer Support position—that aligned perfectly with his lived experiences and dedication to the recovery community. Despite never having done a job interview before, his commitment and willingness to learn got him the job!

His journey hasn't been without challenges. The loss of 48 friends to addiction in just two years has been a heavy burden. But with therapy and resilience, James navigates through the pain, supporting others in their recovery. His passion lies in ensuring that participants invest wholly in their treatment, much like he did.

Today, James is five years sober! And he still works with the same therapist who played a crucial role in his recovery.

Looking ahead, James aspires to continue his work at Second Chance, currently pursuing an AODS counselor certificate at San Diego City College. The nurturing environment and supportive culture at Second Chance empower him daily. His personal mission involves uplifting alumni and instilling positivity in his clients, driven by a profound sense of purpose and excitement for the future. “I always look forward to be able to build my clients and alumni up.  Inspiring my clients to having a positive outlook.   I know I have a purpose, and I’m excited to see what is going to happen in the future.” 

James remains steadfast in his commitment to building a brighter future, both for himself and those he serves. He is looking forward to the next Drug Court program graduation, to see his peers' transformations from former companions in addiction to better versions of themselves. 

Pam and Jane: A Heartwarming Journey of Giving Back

We are pleased to introduce you to Pam and Jane, two extraordinary women, who volunteer at Second Chance. Their passion for community service has made an indelible impact on our programs and participants.

Their journey began in 1991 when they crossed paths at a local bowling alley. Since that momentous meeting, Pam and Jane have been inseparable. Their union was formally celebrated in 2013, marking a joyous milestone in their shared life. Professionally, Jane contributed her expertise to Southwestern Community College, while Pam served as a technical lead in IT Security for San Diego County until her retirement in 2019, just before the onset of the pandemic.

Determined to stay active and continue their service to the community, Pam and Jane devoted their time to volunteering at the Elks Club in Chula Vista. Here, their efforts focused on supporting the Chula Vista community, children, and veterans—Pam's military background in the Air Force further fueling their dedication to assisting veterans.

Upon Pam's retirement, they discovered Second Chance and its professional clothing closet initiative. Pam generously donated her professional attire, and both Pam and Jane recognized the need to organize the closet to benefit more participants. Their involvement soon extended beyond donations; they began volunteering weekly, offering personalized assistance to participants in selecting attire that imbued confidence and professionalism for interviews.

Reflecting on their experience, Pam shared, "The participants we've encountered at Second Chance often have a tough exterior at first. But with the support they receive from the staff and knowing that people like us genuinely care, that exterior gradually softens."

Jane added, "We understand that our role here at Second Chance is part of something much larger. We're individuals who find joy in giving back and genuinely feel like part of the Second Chance family. The gratitude expressed by our participants makes it all worthwhile!"

At Second Chance, we deeply value the contributions of volunteers and donors who play an instrumental role in making our participants feel special and supported. Pam and Jane epitomize this spirit of generosity and dedication.

Join us in expressing our heartfelt gratitude to Pam and Jane for their exceptional commitment, kindness, and the enormous impact they've made on our participants and programs.

Jahaziel’s Remarkable Journey

Meet Jahaziel—a remarkable individual whose journey embodies the transformative power of Second Chance programs and the profound impact of art, perseverance and entrepreneurship in one's life.

In March 2022, Jahaziel graduated from the San Diego Second Chance Job Readiness Training program. Just two years prior, he was in the Trinity-Shasta mountains, serving as a Type-1 inmate firefighter.

Today, his trajectory has shifted dramatically—he's pursuing a Bachelor's in business administration at SDSU, with plans to further his education by attaining a Master's in economics.

However, Jahaziel's transformation doesn't stop there. In August 2022, he delved into a passion he'd discovered—an affinity for art. Motivated by his altered perspective of the world during his time in incarceration, he found art to be the most fitting medium for expressing this newfound perception. For Jahaziel, art isn't just creation; it's a vehicle for introspection, healing, and personal growth.

Recognizing the untapped artistic potential within justice-impacted individuals, Jahaziel saw an opportunity to support Second Chance through an art sale. His artworks not only reflected his personal journey but also symbolized hope, healing, and the artistic talents that often go unnoticed within incarcerated communities.

As a proud graduate of the JRT Class #252, Jahaziel embodies resilience and determination. His advocacy for justice-impacted communities led him to found Market Acquisition Solutions, amplifying voices often overlooked by society. He's not only a Dean's list achiever and Phi Theta Kappa member at SDSU but also an entrepreneur, initiating his own SD 360 photo booth, a highlight of our 30th-anniversary celebration!

Jahaziel's story is an example of the life-altering impact of Second Chance. He represents countless individuals whose potential is unleashed through support, guidance, and opportunities for self-discovery.

At Second Chance, we believe in the transformative power of education, empowerment, and artistic expression. Jahaziel's remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to us all—a opportunity to see the potential within every individual, waiting to be nurtured and unleashed.

Thank you for supporting Second Chance and being a part of Jahaziel's journey and the journeys of many others like him.

September 2023

Howard’s Recovery Journey

In 1988, Howard was living a life many would envy. He had a grand house, cars, a loving family, and everything seemed perfect. However, he took a fateful step into the world of cocaine, and his life began spiraling out of control between 1988 and 1993. Drugs consumed him, and he lost everything he held dear.

In 1990, Howard's life took a drastic turn when he was incarcerated for possession and being under the influence. His sentence was two years, of which he served one in prison and the remainder on parole. Throughout his time behind bars, he vowed to never touch drugs again. But upon release in 1991, he fell back into addiction.

For two years, Howard's parole officer conducted weekly drug tests, all of which were positive. Despite his earnest prayers to break free from drugs, he remained trapped. Then, in July 1993, a new parole officer named Madeline Tillory entered his life. She reviewed his extensive record, filled with violations, and made a life-changing decision

Madeline firmly told Howard that she wouldn't tolerate any more violations. She offered him a way out – a 90-day program instead of returning to prison for six months. Howard chose the program, and it turned out to be the answer to his prayers.

Driven by his personal journey, Howard went back to school and earned a degree in behavioral science and chemical dependency. He held various positions in the field, working to support those facing similar struggles. His career path included roles at Mental Health Systems, RJ Donovan prison, and North County drug court.

In 2020, Howard joined Second Chance as a Program Manager for Reentry Court, marking the latest chapter in his remarkable journey. Over 30 years into his recovery, Howard finds immense joy in helping participants overcome their own challenges. He revels in witnessing their transformations, as they go from struggling to embracing a brighter, sober future.

Howard's unwavering belief in God has been his greatest source of strength throughout his journey. He views himself as a testament to the opportunities that recovery can bring and is committed to guiding every Second Chance participant towards success. As he looks ahead, Howard's mission is clear: to continue helping others find the same path to recovery and fulfillment that he has walked for the past three decades.

Miss Mary is truly an inspiration to many. Please watch this wonderful video to witness the incredible impact she has on both Second Chance participants and staff: