From Homelessness to Hope:
The Heart of Second Chance Services
Our Program
1. Identifying and Connecting with Those in Need:
Every journey begins with connection. We meet individuals where they are—often at feeding events or through recommendations from trusted non-profits. These moments are more than just introductions; they’re the start of a relationship.
2. The Interview Process:
We begin by assessing readiness for this transition through
a interview and a trial day on the job. We understand that moving from
homelessness to steady employment is a significant shift in mind set.
We rely on feedback from our current workers, who play an
essential role in evaluating whether a candidate is prepared for this change.
Additionally, seeing others succeed in the program often inspires and motivates
new participants to embrace the shift themselves.
3. Essential Documents:
For many, the first hurdle to stability is a lack of identification and necessary paperwork. We help participants secure critical documents such as a driver’s license, Social Security card, and birth certificate. With these essentials in hand, they can take meaningful steps toward employment and self-sufficiency.
4. Employment Opportunities at Second Chance Services:
We start by assessing each participant's skills and background, recognizing that many bring valuable trade experience. We focus on fostering and utilizing these skills to deliver quality services to our customers.
Once participants join the program, their first earnings are used to provide them with a cell phone. This ensures they can stay connected, access outside resources, and communicate effectively as they work toward future employment opportunities.
Depending on their skills, we offer two distinct crews.
Introductory Crew: Participants start here, gaining experience with general labor tasks like clean-up and lawn care. It’s a safe space to rebuild routines and rediscover their strengths.
Main Crew: As they grow, they move on to more skilled work—painting, drywall repair, and other trades that tap into their unique abilities.
5. Bridging the Gap to Full-Time Employment
When participants are ready for full-time employment, they enter our Gap Program, which supports their transition. This program provides loans for essential needs like bus fare, clothing, food, and other necessities until they receive their first paycheck.
Once this initial loan is repaid, participants can access a housing deposit loan and, if needed, assistance with rent. To ensure long-term stability, we also offer financial education, teaching budgeting and money management skills.
The individual will also receive an electric bike to assist with transportation.
6. Giving Back Through Mentorship:
Before moving into housing, participants in the Gap Program are encouraged to mentor someone new to Second Chance Services. This helps create a cycle of support, with each individual contributing to the growth of others in the program.
