Second Chance Rising – Youth Transformation & Education Division

A 9‑Month Pathway for Young Adults Who Are Ready to Re‑Engage, Rise, and Finish Strong

Second Chance Rising is a structured, nine‑month re‑engagement program for young adults ages 16–24 who have stepped away from traditional school but are ready to come back stronger. Some are restarting after setbacks. Others are choosing a new direction before things go too far off track.

Every participant works toward either a High School Diploma or a GED while building life skills, career readiness, and community connections. Second Chance Rising gives young adults structure, mentorship, and a clear path to a real credential and a real future.

Second Chance Rising youth program

About Second Chance Rising

Second Chance Rising is built for young people who still have goals, even if the traditional path didn’t work. The program meets each participant where they are — academically and personally — and gives them a structured, supportive way to earn a credential, rebuild confidence, and plan for what comes next.

Learning happens across two connected platforms: ZAPZ Academy (online, self‑paced coursework) and ZAPZ Prep (in‑person or hybrid sessions). Together, they create a flexible, high‑support environment for youth who are working, parenting, or navigating complex life situations.

What Participants Will Learn

Second Chance Rising blends academics, life skills, mentorship, and future planning. Young adults learn how to manage responsibilities, make stronger decisions, and prepare for college, training, or work.

  • Core academics toward a High School Diploma or GED
  • Study skills & time management for busy schedules
  • Financial literacy & basic money management
  • Health, wellness, and stress management
  • Communication & conflict resolution
  • Digital literacy & online safety
  • Career exploration & job readiness
  • Community engagement & service projects
Young adults learning and growing

Two Academic Tracks

Every participant is placed on one of two clear academic paths:

  • Track A – High School Diploma
    Credit recovery and completion aligned to state standards.
  • Track B – GED Preparation
    Focused preparation for the GED in Math, RLA, Science, and Social Studies.

Program Pillars

Second Chance Rising is built on five pillars that run through all nine months:

  • Academic Achievement
  • Mentorship & Guidance
  • Life Skills Development
  • Career Readiness
  • Community Engagement

Who Second Chance Rising Serves

  • Young adults ages 16–24 who have exited traditional school systems
  • Students who need a structured way to finish a diploma or earn a GED
  • Youth balancing work, family, or other responsibilities while returning to education
  • Young people seeking mentorship, stability, and a clear plan for their future
  • Those ready for a second chance to rise, not just “catch up”

9‑Month Program Structure

The program is organized into three phases, each with a clear focus and milestone:

  • Phase 1 – Foundation (Months 1–3): Orientation, assessment, mentor matching, and core academic launch.
  • Phase 2 – Growth (Months 4–6): Academic deepening, electives, community projects, and career exploration.
  • Phase 3 – Launch (Months 7–9): Final academic completion, resume and interview prep, community project presentations, and graduation.

Program Outcomes

  • High School Diploma (Track A) or GED Certificate (Track B)
  • Life Skills Portfolio documenting growth and skills learned
  • Elective Certificate or Badge in a chosen interest area
  • Resume, mock interview experience, and career readiness tools
  • Community project experience and documented impact
  • Personal transition plan for college, training, or employment

Enroll in Second Chance Rising

Give a young adult the opportunity to re‑engage with education, earn a credential, and step into their next chapter with confidence.

Apply or Refer a Student
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