Second Chance Scholars was founded in response to the struggle to create a viable release plan for the first Potsdam@RCF student who transitioned from prison to continue his post-secondary education on the SUNY Potsdam campus. The residential component of the individualized release plan came together at the last minute because of the generosity of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Canton, New York that provided the security deposit for the needed apartment and a landlord with a relationship to SUNY Potsdam. Without a confirmed residence evidenced by a signed Landlord and Tenant Agreement, the paroling authorities would not agree to the release of the Potsdam@RCF student to continue their college education at SUNY Potsdam or release to St. Lawrence County. Adding to the difficulties of securing a residence is that these pieces must be in place 60 days in advance of the student’s prison release. How many landlords would provide a confirmed residence 60 days before the tenant pays the security deposit or rent?

Consequently, Second Chance Scholars is an organization that will provide safe and secure housing along with peer support for formerly incarcerated individuals throughout their reentry period to ensure a successful transition that ultimately results in a degree in higher education, gainful employment, reinforced social and community relationships, and financial independence. By combining housing, education, and employment assistance, Second Chance Scholars seeks to provide a comprehensive solution to the problems of recidivism, creating a concrete path toward degree completion, while prompting a true model of reformation through higher education.

Second Chance Scholars received its incorporation filing as a not-for-profit organization in the State of New York, County of St. Lawrence in April 2023 and has since applied for 501(c)(3) status by filing form 1023 with the IRS (Internal Revenue Service). The Board of Directors and Officers shall be comprised of justice-impacted individuals, a college-in-prison instructor or affiliate, a supportive and active member of the community, a legal professional, and a business professional ensuring the diversification of both lived-experience and profession.

Second Chance Scholars’ mission is to support returning citizens in academic and professional success by meeting their basic needs such as housing, employment, clothing, food, social support, and other necessities. Second Chance Scholars seeks to provide a safe and supportive environment that fosters personal and academic growth, allowing justice-impacted scholars to realize their full potential and achieve their goals.