Join us in a collective journey of compassionate leadership and meaningful impact as we work hand in hand with community resources to transform lives and nurture hope for those who truly need a second chance.
We believe that real change happens through a balanced approach of advocacy, coaching, and accountability. We do not believe in handouts that enable unhealthy patterns — we believe in providing a hand up.
We believe everyone deserves a second chance, and we are committed to advocating for the rights, dignity, and fair consideration of the people we serve.
We believe every person has the potential to positively impact the world, but true transformation requires guidance and coaching. You cannot expect someone to become a pillar in their community if they have never been shown how.
There is a thin line between helping and enabling, and accountability is what keeps that line clear. We believe real transformation begins when individuals take ownership of their choices and commit to building a better future.
Meet our dedicated team members who work tirelessly to fulfill our mission and make a positive impact.
Dr. Kideste Mariam Yusef is a nationally recognized educator, researcher, and advocate committed to advancing justice, equity, and successful reentry. She serves as an Associate Professor of Criminal Justice at Bethune-Cookman University, where she also directs the Center for Law & Social Justice.
With extensive experience in criminal justice reform, youth development, and community-engaged research, Dr. Yusef has led and evaluated initiatives focused on mentoring, diversion, police-community trust, and pathways to opportunity for system-impacted individuals. She has also dedicated countless volunteer hours supporting reentry initiatives through partnerships with the Florida Department of Corrections, the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice, and the National Alliance of Faith and Justice.
As Chief Strategy Officer and Board Member for Second Chance Collective, Dr. Yusef brings strategic vision, research expertise, and a deep passion for empowering second chances through housing, healing, hope, and sustainable pathways to success.
Jesse DeMers is the Founder and Executive Director of The Second Chance Collective, where he helps returning citizens and other disenfranchised individuals rebuild their lives through structure, mentorship, and opportunity.
His leadership is rooted in lived experience. After going to prison at 19 and serving 13 years, Jesse was released at 32 determined to turn his life around and give back to the community in a meaningful way. Since then, he has become an entrepreneur, mentor, speaker, and advocate for second chances.
Jesse is also the founder of Bamboo Athletics, an award-winning gym in Volusia County built from the ground up with no investors, voted Best Gym in Daytona Beach two years in a row.
He serves on the Advisory Boards of Volusia Recovery Alliance and Stewart-Marchman Act Behavioral Healthcare, and as a stakeholder with Daytona State College. He helps facilitate the F.A.C.E. I.T. Program for the Volusia County Probation Office, volunteers at Tomoka Correctional Institution, works with youth through D.A.R.E., and speaks nationally. His life reflects redemption, responsibility, and a deep passion for helping others build lasting change.
Do you have a skill or area of expertise you can share? Do you hire individuals who need a second chance? Do you have groceries, hygiene products, or cleaning supplies you would like to donate? If so, we invite you to join our mission and help us create real opportunities, restore hope, and make a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve.
