Transforming second chances into stable futures for Florida's juvenile lifers.
Currently operating at Tomoka Correctional Institution · 2026
A critical gap in Florida's justice system
Florida's Department of Corrections offers dozens of rehabilitative programs — but not one of them is specifically designed for the thousands of men who were committed as juveniles and are now facing possible release after decades behind bars.
Today, Florida law has evolved. Under Florida Statutes §§ 921.1401 and 921.1402, these individuals must now be given the opportunity for judicial review or resentencing. Before the courts and the Commission for Offender Review, they must demonstrate profound rehabilitation, genuine maturity, and that they are reasonably fit to re-enter society.
Legal Context — Florida Statutes §§ 921.1401 & 921.1402
These statutes require that individuals sentenced to life or extended terms as juveniles be considered for resentencing or judicial review. Courts must evaluate demonstrated rehabilitation and maturity — yet no FDC program currently exists to specifically prepare this population for that standard. The JwL Initiative was created to fill that gap.
The problem is not a lack of willingness. It is a lack of guidance. Many of these men have stacks of certificates from prison programs — yet cannot hold a healthy conversation, have no financial literacy, no recognized vocational skills, and no structured plan for life after release. The JwL Initiative changes that.
What the JwL Initiative does
A comprehensive, trauma-informed rehabilitation framework built around six integrated components designed to produce genuine, verifiable evidence of growth — not paperwork, but real transformation.
Character development, ethical decision-making, victim impact awareness, trauma recovery, and emotional intelligence — building a genuine Life Plan Portfolio courts can evaluate.
Accredited certifications in high-demand trades (HVAC, electrical, IT, culinary) and financial literacy training. JwL partners with Daytona State College's Fresh Start Program to provide free higher education to all participants.
Individualized reentry plans with warm handoffs to trusted community partners — including the Volusia Recovery Alliance and the Cornerstone Fatherhood Program — and a dedicated JwL transitional housing model.
JwL participants serve as peer mentors to at-risk youth — sharing real testimony in a dialogue that shows troubled kids where poor decisions lead.
Partnerships with CFSY, ICAN, the Restorative Justice Project, and other national organizations to ensure best practices and systemic legislative support.
Professional communication, workplace conflict resolution, time management, self-advocacy, and workplace culture — skills that turn a job into a career.
Three pillars of transformation
Every component of the JwL Initiative flows through three interconnected pillars — each reinforcing the others to produce lasting change.
Behavioral
Therapy
Program
Where your support goes
Every dollar is invested directly in program infrastructure, curriculum development, vocational training access, and reentry support. Second Chance Collective is a 501(c)(3) — we steward every donation with purpose and accountability.
A community call to action
The success of the JwL Initiative is a collective community victory waiting to happen. This isn't about charity — it's about smart public policy and creating a safer future for everyone. Hope and opportunity are the most effective tools for justice.
Your contributions directly fund mental health treatment, educational services, and housing stability.
Donate NowWe are looking for local businesses that value potential and are willing to provide fair-chance opportunities to returning citizens.
Partner with us →Become a mentor and provide invaluable guidance and support to someone navigating a world that has changed dramatically since their incarceration.
Get involved →The JwL Initiative is committed to the successful, evidence-based reintegration of individuals released from juvenile life sentences or extended sentences. Our mission is to promote rehabilitation, reduce recidivism through holistic support, and build safer, more compassionate communities in Florida.