About Us
A second chance, built by the community, for the community.
Our story
Everybody hits a wall at some point: a man coming home from prison with a bag and a parole date, a single mom trying to get back to work, a worker hurt on the job, a kid with nobody in his corner. What makes the difference is somebody who shows up and helps you find the next move.
2nd Opportunity was founded in Fresno by Rommel Damian, who knows firsthand what a second chance can do. He built it around a simple idea: the people who've walked the hard road are often the best ones to help others find a better one.
Today we serve returning citizens, workers, and young people across Fresno and the Central Valley through workers' rights education, leadership development, youth mentorship, and life skills training.
Our vision
A Central Valley where everyone, no matter their past, has the skills, support, and opportunity to build a good life and give back to their community.
Meet Rommel Damian
Our founder's full story is coming soon.
Founder & Executive Director, 2nd Opportunity
Leadership, staff & mentors
Our team includes people who've turned their lives around and now help others do the same, alongside professionals, educators, and community leaders.
Team profiles are coming soon.
Lived experience, handled with care
Our mentors include people who've turned their lives around after incarceration. They're powerful role models, and we take that responsibility seriously. Everyone who works with youth goes through screening, including a review of their background, and not every volunteer works with young people.