Support The Power of Second Chances: Meet the Newest Member of our Team of Court Advocates – Jalil

This week, we would like to share a powerful Second Chance story with you from our newest Court Advocate, Jalil. 

“I came to Avenues for Justices (AFJ) as a volunteer facilitator, educating Participants as part of the physical wellness program on calisthenics and body movement. I had been a personal trainer for years, a student athlete in high school, and someone who understands the importance of physical health for your overall well being. 

I’m also someone who knows about the Power of Second chances because I needed one myself.  

Growing up, I was part of the problem. I ended up sentenced to 25 years to life, and I had to work hard to transform myself to be eligible for the first (parole) board. I was released in July of 2018 and I had a game plan to turn my life around. I continued to work out, I got my ID (which is an important first step), and then I got my permit and eventually my driver’s license. I found a job the following week. Most importantly, I got to spend time with my mother, who always showed up to support me and made sure I knew she was there with me throughout those 25 years.

That’s why working at AFJ has been so important to me. I am always willing to share my story with Participants that are already at risk of being involved with the system. When you end up behind bars, you don’t have any freedom. In some ways the prison system is even worse now because of the changes they’ve made which makes it harder for incarcerated people to receive letters and packages, or to have contact with their families. Behind bars is not a place that anyone wants to be.

Avenues for Justice welcomes Jalil as a Court Advocate, mentoring and guiding our young people. During this season of giving, we hope that you will consider making a donation to AFJ to support the Power of Second Chances for court-involved youth in New York City. Your donation helps us provide the individualized care our Participants need and fosters a supportive environment to ensure their success.