SAN DIEGO - A local organization is working to help San Diegans with criminal pasts turn around their lives, and the program's results speak for themselves.
The organization is called Second Chance, but the people the community call it the "Miracle on Imperial Avenue,"
Just months ago, Jose was sitting in a jail cell on drug charges. Now he's perfecting his gardening skills and proud of it.
“I use to sell drug, use them and had no future,” Jose said.
During his four-week course, Jose is learning interview skills, job training, receives counseling, and gardening. The tools, Second Chance says, are needed to not only get him back into society, but to put him on the right track for life.
Second Chance Executive Director Robert Coleman said the program is not just for offenders. Anyone who wants a change in life is welcome to learn the free skills.
"We have a team of people that will work with you day in and day out as long as you are willing to make the effort," Coleman said.
He admits Second Chance isn't for everyone. Some past offenders drop out, but so far they have a 70-percent success rate.
Francisco is one of the program's many success stories. He spent 27-years in prison and had been on drugs since he was a teen. Francisco found salvation with Second Chance and has even become an instructor.
"We teach people how to value themselves, their families, and their future," Francisco
