Sometimes, the only thing standing between a young person and a successful future is a second chance. That was true for me. Before I found the right support, I didn’t have the tools to navigate my future. But through JCCA’s Court-Involved Youth Mental Health Initiative, also known as Second Chances, I gained the skills and confidence to shape my own path.
Second Chances didn’t just teach me how to get a job—it taught me how to advocate for myself and take control of my life. Every young person deserves that same opportunity. JCCA, a nonprofit child welfare organization, depends on New York City Council funding to continue this life-changing program.
When I first joined, I was nervous. Group workshops and one-on-one mentoring were new to me, but I quickly realized this program wasn’t about judgment—it was about equipping me with the skills and support I needed to succeed.
One of the most impactful experiences was a mock “shark tank” panel. We brainstormed invention ideas and pitched them to a group, simulating a real-world business environment. Presenting for my team was nerve-wracking, but it taught me how to communicate my ideas clearly and persuasively. Now, I walk into job interviews feeling prepared and confident.
The program also provided me with a resume, cover letter, and interview practice. With the help of my mentors, I refined my job applications and gained the confidence to put myself out there. Today, I work at Luna Park in Coney Island and am about to be promoted—something I never imagined before Second Chances.
Financial literacy was another crucial lesson. Budgeting exercises and real-world money management projects taught me how to save, plan, and make informed financial decisions. Now, I set aside a portion of each paycheck and manage my expenses responsibly—an invaluable skill that will serve me for life.
But beyond the practical skills, Second Chances gave me a community. My mentors and peers became a support system that kept me motivated. Every week, I met with the mental health counselor and learned ways to handle some of the personal struggles I was experiencing. I wasn’t just given an opportunity—I worked for it, with the right guidance and resources. Without this program, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
This is why Second Chances must continue. Too many young people, just like me, need guidance and support to change their futures. The New York City Council’s funding is crucial to keeping this program alive. Investing in Second Chances means investing in young people, reducing recidivism, increasing employment, and strengthening communities.
I know firsthand how powerful a second chance can be. Now, I’m asking the City Council to ensure that others get theirs.
Mickalina Stewart, a young woman from Brooklyn, received support from JCCA’s Second Chances program.
