About
Second Chance After Release Services (SCARS) is dedicated to empowering formerly incarcerated individuals to achieve successful, sustainable re-entry into society. We accomplish this by providing structured transitional housing, comprehensive vocational training, essential life skills development, and personalized case management.
Our Story
From Trauma to Triumph
Every life includes moments that leave a mark. At SCARS—Survivorship, Community, Adaption, Resilience, Strength—we believe these marks, both visible and invisible, are not signs of weakness, but blueprints for a deeper, more powerful self.
The Inspiration
SCARS was founded by a survivor who, through his own arduous healing journey, realized a profound truth: the process of recovery is not about erasing the past, but about integrating it. The physical and emotional ‘scars’ were not just reminders of pain; they were proof of an unmatched capacity to endure and rebuild. This realization—that personal trauma could become the foundation for Post-Traumatic Growth—ignited the mission to share this transformative truth with others.
Our Mission: Reclaiming the Narrative
Our core mission is to empower individuals to reclaim their personal narrative. We move beyond simple coping strategies to provide structured, evidence-based programs designed to foster active resilience. We offer a safe, supportive community where shared experience breaks the isolation often associated with recovery. We equip our participants with the tools needed for deep, lasting healing, transforming their story from one of victimization into one of powerful survivorship.
Our Vision: Destigmatizing Strength
We envision a world where the word “scar” is synonymous with strength, grit, and the extraordinary human capacity for recovery. We are building a global community that destigmatizes healing and celebrates the courage it takes to rebuild. SCARS is not just a program; it is a movement dedicated to turning adversity into the bedrock of a richer, more meaningful life.
Our Core Services: The SCARS Path to Permanent Success
Structured Transitional Housing
We provide immediate, safe, and stable transitional housing. Stability is the foundational element of every success story. This structured environment eliminates immediate survival chaos, enabling participants to focus fully on job training, education, and personal healing without the daily burden of housing insecurity.
Workforce Development & Job Placement
Our program moves participants beyond entry-level jobs to sustainable careers. We offer specialized vocational training, industry-recognized certifications, resume development, and direct job placement assistance in “felony-friendly” sectors. Our commitment includes advocacy with employers to ensure every graduate has the best possible chance at long-term professional success.
Financial Literacy & Credit Building
We teach the fundamentals of financial health, focusing on generational wealth, not just budgeting. This mandatory curriculum includes deep dives into credit building and repair, savings strategies, and accessing ethical financial services. The goal is a tangible FICO score increase, unlocking access to independent housing and lower interest rates.
Building Generational Wealth & Equity
We equip graduates with the knowledge to make personal investments and build long-term generational equity. This advanced module shifts the focus from debt management to asset accumulation, covering topics like retirement account basics (e.g., 401k/IRA) and the principles of homeownership and long-term financial security.
Alumni Support & Lifelong Community
Graduation is not the end of the SCARS journey. Our alumni benefit from a Lifelong Support Network offering continuous mentorship, resource referrals, and opportunities to volunteer and become peer mentors for current clients. This sustained connection ensures long-term stability and reinforces community commitment.
Entrepreneurship & Retirement Planning
For those pursuing business ownership, we provide continuing support in management, financial planning, and venture success. Furthermore, we offer personalized guidance on establishing and managing retirement accounts and long-term financial instruments, ensuring participants are building secure, prosperous futures beyond their working years.
Our Team
Franz Carter
Founder/CEO
Brandon Sanders
CFO
Chelcee Gibson
COO
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