A Second Chance Could Make All The Difference.
Helping formerly incarcerated individuals overcome barriers and rebuild their lives through comprehensive support.
Building Bridges & Breaking Cycles
WHAT IS SECOND CHANCES?
“Second Chances” is a program sponsored by the City of Norfolk, operating under the umbrella of Garden of Hope CDC.
We provide formerly incarcerated men and women—especially non-violent offenders—with transitional support services that lead to economic stability, social reintegration, and healthy lifestyles.
For individuals facing barriers like employment challenges, housing insecurity, addiction recovery, and the stigma of being labeled an ex-offender, Second Chances offers a path to positive re-entry and lasting success.
Building Bridges & Breaking Cycles
OUR SERVICES
We offer a diverse range of services tailored to support reentry and long-term stability:
CASE
MANAGEMENT
Our dedicated case managers work one-on-one with participants to develop personalized success plans. They provide guidance, resources, and advocacy to help navigate challenges in employment, housing, and daily life.
JOB SKILLS TRAINING AND PLACEMENT
We equip participants with essential job skills through hands-on training and workshops tailored to today’s workforce. Our team also assists with job placement, resume building, and interview preparation to ensure long-term employment success..
FAMILY ENGAGEMENT
SERVICES
We help participants rebuild and strengthen relationships with family members through counseling, mediation, and support activities. Restoring these connections is key to emotional stability and successful reintegration.
CRISIS
INTERVENTION
Immediate assistance is available for participants facing urgent situations such as housing instability, health concerns, or legal challenges. Our team provides rapid response support and connects individuals to critical resources.
RELAPSE
PREVENTION
This supportive group helps individuals recognize triggers, manage addiction challenges, and stay committed to recovery. Through counseling and peer support, participants build strategies for maintaining sobriety and preventing relapse.
SUPPORTIVE
HOUSING
We offer safe, stable housing environments for individuals transitioning back into society. Our housing includes access to peer support, case management, and structured programs that promote independent living.
LIFE SKILLS TRAINING & PLACEMENT
Participants learn practical skills such as decision-making, financial management, communication, and conflict resolution. This training builds confidence and prepares individuals for everyday responsibilities and long-term stability.
SUBSTANCE ABUSE
TREATMENT
We connect participants with professional treatment services to address substance abuse issues. The program promotes recovery through counseling, therapy, and ongoing support tailored to individual needs.
USEFUL
INFO
Participants gain access to a wide range of resources, including community programs, legal aid, educational opportunities, and employment tools. We ensure individuals have the information they need to succeed during reentry.
Building Bridges & Breaking Cycles
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
If you meet the following criteria, Second Chances could be your next step forward:
- Ex-offenders 18+ years old
- Norfolk residents with a verifiable address
- Non-violent background
- Drug-free for 90+ days or committed to a treatment plan
- No pending charges or court appearances
OUR IMPACT
At Garden of Hope, the impact of the Second Chances Program is measured not just in numbers, but in lives transformed. Through compassionate support, structured programming, and unwavering commitment, we’ve helped hundreds of individuals navigate the path from incarceration to independence.
From securing jobs and stable housing to reuniting families and preventing relapse, each success story is a testament to what’s possible when people are given the opportunity to thrive.
Hundreds of individuals supported through reentry
Job Placements leading to stable incomes
Safe housing provided for men and women
Life skills training that empowers long-term independence
Relapse prevention success stories
Family Reunifications and restored lives
Building Bridges & Breaking Cycles
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!
Ready to take the next step? Our team is here to support you. Schedule an appointment today to learn how the Second Chances Program can help you build a stable, successful future.
