COURSES FOR THOSE IN RECOVERY
When a person first attempts to get sober and looks around at the wreckage their substance use disorder left in its wake, the thought of rebuilding can seem so overwhelming that it keeps them trapped in the vicious cycle of drinking or using.
BREAK THE CYCLE OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE
Putting down the substance is only the first step in recovery. When you stop drinking or using, all the feelings you were numbing with substances suddenly come flooding back. Not only that, but you’re likely facing a litany of consequences – broken relationships, lost jobs, financial troubles, legal issues, health issues, and more – that are anxiety provoking in and of themselves.
Most of us are simply not equipped to deal with these challenges on our own, so it’s no surprise that when we refuse to reach out for help and try to go it alone, we stumble.
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 19.7 million American adults battled a substance use disorder in 2017.[1]
Addictive disorders disrupt relationships with family and friends and often cause people to lose their jobs and housing. A 2008 survey by the United States Conference of Mayors pointed to substance abuse as the single largest cause of homelessness for single adults. [2]
More than half of the prison population and two-thirds of the sentenced jail population report drug dependence or abuse, compared to just 5% of the adult general population. [3]
OUR APPROACH
HELPING YOU HELP YOURSELF
2nd Opportunity’s programming is catered to men and women inside jails and prisons preparing for release, as well as those on the outside who are formerly incarcerated and struggling to gain traction.
The courses aim to build your dignity and self-worth while empowering you to improve your life. Whether you believe it yet or not, you already have the inherent abilities and talent you need to create the kind of life you want and deserve.
Our program presenters – men and women with lived experience themselves – are here just to be your guide, helping you build (or rebuild) your confidence, providing resources and referrals to get back on your feet, and arming you with the skills and tools you need to become a working, self-sufficient member of society—and stay that way.
PROGRAM OFFERINGS
We recommend that you take our three courses in the sequence presented below. Because we believe the content is so valuable and don’t want you to miss any of it, we offer a discounted rate when you sign up for the three-course program bundle. Here’s what to expect for each:
A PATH FORWARD©
A program designed for those who are re-entering society after being released from jail or prison. The most comprehensive of our three courses, A Path Forward© includes two hours of video instruction, a 42-page workbook, and activities and quizzes to reinforce the material covered.
Your program presenter will guide you through:
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Examining trauma and its impact on your behavior
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Understanding the essential concepts and challenges of starting over
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Defining what success means to you and what really matters in your life
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Crafting your story and talking about your background on job interviews
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Being part of a team and dealing with workplace conflict
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And much more
A PATH TO FINANCIAL FREEDOM©
A program designed to teach participants the fundamentals of finance needed to function in today’s world. The course includes 90 minutes of video instruction, a 23-page workbook, and activities and quizzes to ensure participants are absorbing the material.
Basic skills covered include:
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Budgeting
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Operating a checking account
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Paying taxes
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Applying for financial aid
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Filling out employment forms
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Establishing credit
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And much more
VALUES-ALIGNED GOAL SETTING©
An interactive workshop designed to help people reevaluate and rebuild following incarceration by determining their values and setting attainable goals that will set them up for long-term success. Participants will have access to two hours of video instruction, a 35-page workbook, and quizzes, activities and goal-setting worksheets they can refer back to for years to come as they progress through their career and life goals.
Throughout the course, you’ll learn how to:
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Determine your values
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Set “bedrock” and “building” goals
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Identify potential obstacles to reintegrating into society
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Develop and pursue a meaningful career path
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And much more
Dedicated Support Network
NETWORKS
Referrals for employment, housing, substance abuse counseling, and other essential support services.
TRAINING
Skills development courses, lectures and webinars.
SUPPORT GROUP
Virtual and In-person peer-to-peer meetings and connections.
MENTORING
One-on-one mentoring for those who need additional support.
Get Started
If you didn’t have the opportunity to take 2nd Opportunity’s courses while in jail or prison, you can access them through our website and complete them at your own pace. Still have questions? Feel free to email us or call us at 847-257-2713.
Recent Success Stories
Having spent years stuck in the vicious cycle of jail and rehab, Mike M. now believes that ‘anything is possible’ after taking 2nd Opportunity’s re-entry, financial literacy, and goal-setting classes during a stint in Kane County Jail.
Despite the challenges, Chicago business owner Tom Decker is on a mission to turn individuals with a background into committed, loyal employees.
Incarcerated for drug-related crimes, Peter Hoistad focuses on shaping the next chapter of his life–one hurdle at a time.
Incarcerated for a Survival Crime, Willette Benford Learns She Was Meant to Thrive