Women fashion custom mugs in the Her Second Chance workspace in Boca Raton. Photo provided by Carina Mask
By Lou Ann Frala
Second chances are ubiquitous in life. Famous stories abound. Martha Stewart. Robert Downey Jr. James Taylor. Ebenezer Scrooge? OK, he’s fictional, but he’s the poster miser for second chances.
In Boca Raton, Her Second Chance employs women in the early stages of recovery from substance abuse in the manufacture of high-quality, branded merchandise.
The H2C line includes mugs and tumblers, soy candles, printed T-shirts, charm bracelets, custom logo items, greeting cards and more. See and shop nearly 300 products at the Her2ndChance store at Etsy.com.
“We believe when people work, it increases the chances their recovery will, too,” said Marie Speed, a new member of the Her Second Chance board of directors.
“That’s why we provide paid jobs in a safe and supportive environment designed to empower women early in their recovery journey to rebuild pride, resilience and self-sufficiency.”
It’s all part of the Bridge to Employment program.
“The women we employ have overcome significant obstacles in their lives, ranging from childhood abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder, to addiction and homelessness, yet each maintains the belief that as long as they work hard, they can create brighter futures,” founder Keely Copeland says on the Her2ndchance.org website.
Her own story echoes her words. She founded H2C in 2018 as her own second chance from alcoholism took root.
The organization has hired more than 100 women during that time.
Her Second Chance is inviting the community to its annual open house from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Nov. 12 at its headquarters, 3100 NW Boca Raton Blvd., Suite 312.
The event will feature the announcement of a premium product line focused on quality, customer service and value.
Guests will have a chance to tour the workspace and meet the women who have embraced their second chances. The event is free and open to the public and will include music, light bites and coffee.
‘It’s a chance for us to say thank you to members of the community who already know us, and also to introduce ourselves to people who are hearing about us for the first time,” said Sarah Lucas, of Delray Beach.
Lucas is an original board member of Her Second Chance and is herself in recovery for 18 years.
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