Austin's Second Chance

About Austin's Second Chance

Austin's Second Chance is a nonprofit founded by Terrance Harris in memory of his best friend, Austin Curtis Rakes, who died of an accidental overdose at 17. Terrance transformed grief into purpose, building an organization that provides youth—especially young men ages 13–24 impacted by trauma, addiction, and poverty—with a second chance to heal, grow, and thrive. Our Mission To offer creative outlets, mental health support, and workforce opportunities that help young people reclaim their futures. What We Do Workforce Development: Offering OSHA certification, resume building, interview prep, and job placement through community partnerships. Mental Health Support: Providing peer support, psychoeducation, and system navigation to ensure youth access timely and compassionate care. Creative Healing: Using storytelling, filmmaking, and art therapy to help youth process trauma and express identity. Harm Reduction: Partnering with groups like Virginia Harm Reduction Coalition to distribute fentanyl test strips and overdose education. Community Events: Hosting healing circles, film screenings, and public dialogues on grief, masculinity, and mental wellness. Our Impact Goals Within two years, we aim to certify 100 youth in OSHA 10, connect 60 to jobs or education, facilitate 200+ hours of creative programming, and distribute 1,000 harm reduction kits. Our Vision A world where every young person has the opportunity to rewrite their story and access the support they need—no matter where they start. Join us at austinssecondchance.com to learn more or get involved. Because every story—every life—deserves a second chance.

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