A Second Chance Collective initiative
Juveniles with Life (JwL) Initiative
Transforming second chances into stable futures for Florida's juvenile lifers. Currently operating at Tomoka Correctional Institution.
The need
A critical gap in Florida's justice system.
Florida's Department of Corrections offers many rehabilitative programs, but none designed specifically for the men who were sentenced as juveniles and now face possible release after decades inside.
Under Florida Statutes §§ 921.1401 and 921.1402, these individuals must be given the opportunity for judicial review or resentencing. Before the courts and the Commission for Offender Review, they must show real rehabilitation, maturity, and readiness to return to society. The JwL Initiative was created to help them prepare.
The problem is not a lack of willingness. It is a lack of guidance — in communication, financial literacy, recognized job skills, and a structured plan for life after release.
Why it matters
“…children who commit serious crimes can mature and change — and can, with the guidance they desperately need, become productive members of society.”Jesse DeMersCo-Founder & Executive Director, Second Chance Collective · Director, JwL Initiative
At a glance
The scale of the gap.
Floridians serving life sentences for offenses committed as juveniles
FDC programs designed specifically for this population
Years many have spent incarcerated without targeted support
Florida law requiring judicial review for juvenile lifers
The solution
Six components. Real, verifiable growth.
A trauma-informed framework designed to produce genuine evidence of transformation — not paperwork.
Foundational curriculum
Character development, ethical decision-making, victim impact awareness, trauma recovery, and emotional intelligence — building a Life Plan Portfolio courts can evaluate.
Vocational & education
Accredited certifications in high-demand trades such as HVAC, electrical, IT, and culinary, plus financial literacy. Through Daytona State College's Fresh Start Program, participants can access free higher education.
Reentry & transition
Individualized reentry plans with warm handoffs to trusted partners, including Volusia Recovery Alliance and the Cornerstone Fatherhood Program, and a dedicated JwL transitional housing model.
Giving back
Participants serve as peer mentors to at-risk youth, sharing real testimony that shows young people where poor decisions lead.
Advocacy & networking
Partnerships with CFSY, ICAN, the Restorative Justice Project, and other national organizations to support best practices and systemic change.
Workforce development
Professional communication, workplace conflict resolution, time management, self-advocacy, and workplace culture — the skills that turn a job into a career.
Program map
Three pillars of transformation.
Cognitive behavioral therapy
CBT courses in anger management, critical thinking, and trauma recovery, delivered by experts via Zoom, with outside volunteers guiding life skills, release planning, and vocational direction.
Outreach
Inspirational talks with at-risk youth at detention facilities via Zoom, and Second Chance Collective's transition program for a healthy return to society.
Reentry
A one-year transition program with structured housing, employment with local business partners, one-on-one mentorship, and continued cognitive behavioral training.
Your impact
Where your support goes.
Every dollar is invested in program infrastructure, curriculum, vocational training access, and reentry support.
Donate to JwLTake the next step
A community victory waiting to happen.
This is not about charity — it is about smart public policy and a safer future for everyone. Donate, offer fair-chance employment, or mentor someone navigating a world that has changed.