At Carroll Community College, second chances aren’t just possible; they’re woven into the very fabric of the college’s mission. One way this mission comes to life is through the Justice System to Careers Initiative (JSCI), a groundbreaking program that’s turning lives around for adults and youth impacted by the justice system.

More than a program — a lifeline

Topher Schreiner is an ex-offender, an entrepreneur, and a proud JSCI success story.

“Not that long ago, I wasn’t sure my future looked like,” Schreiner shared. Struggles with addiction and self-doubt had once clouded his path forward. But when he connected with JSCI through the Carroll County State’s Attorney’s Office, everything changed. “Now I’m building something that will change lives, including my own,” he said.

That something is Neeta Peace of Mind, a nonprofit company Schreiner founded that allows people in treatment centers—such as hospices, battered women’s shelters, and mental health or drug facilities — to stay connected with their pets, either physically or virtually. With assistance from the Justice System to Careers Initiative, Topher is making his vision a reality.

“I don’t want anyone else to go through what I’ve been through,” Schreiner said. “I’ve taken those experiences and turned them into something meaningful. I believe what I’m bringing to market will truly help people.”

The JSCI program opened the door for Schreiner to pursue his entrepreneurial dream.

“When I first heard of the JSCI, I thought it was just going to give me some classes and some career advice,” he said. “But it turned out to be so much more. It’s workforce training, a stipend, and this heart-filled love from them to see me succeed.”

An ecosystem of support

Launched in August 2024, the JSCI program was developed by Angelica Carter, director of community engagement and employee development at Carroll Community College. She saw the need for a comprehensive, collaborative approach to bridging the gap between justice-involved citizens and access to sustainable, life-changing workforce training and career pathways.

Rather than providing fragmented services, JSCI offers a seamless experience, from networking and education to job placement and beyond. It unites eight local organizations — Carroll Community College, Carroll County Circuit Court, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Carroll County State’s Attorney’s Office, Justice Jobs of Maryland, Carroll County Workforce Development, Carroll County Health Department, and the Carroll County Public Defender’s Office — to build an ecosystem of support that includes case management, tuition assistance, résumé coaching, employer connections, and more.

JSCI participants can also “earn while they learn,” receiving a stipend that removes financial barriers while completing short-term credentialing programs that can be completed in as little as one week up to 90 days.

Turning aspiration into action

Schreiner entered Carroll’s Pathways to Entrepreneurship program with a plan already in mind, and JSCI proved instrumental in bringing that plan to fruition. He received a scholarship through Ratcliffe Works and mentorship from business consultant Tom Mazerski, who is now preparing Schreiner to pitch Neeta Peace of Mind at the next Carroll Biz Challenge, where he has a chance to win $10,000 in startup funding.

Mazerski has played a pivotal role during Schreiner’s time in the JSCI. Mazerski stepped in at a critical moment — when Schreiner was at risk of losing momentum—and helped him regain focus to not only complete the program but also to continue his journey toward an associate degree at Carroll.

“I’ve come to see learning as a powerful tool,” Schreiner said. “Not just for personal growth, but for building something lasting. Taking this step wasn’t about starting over. It was about leveling up.”

Schreiner urges other communities to consider the value of second-chance programs like JSCI. “If you’re ever wondering if your community needs an initiative like JSCI, it does!” Schreiner continued. “I was more than capable. I just needed the support system — and this is what it has done for me.”

It isn’t that people don’t want to pursue education, but something has gotten in their way. This coming together of eight partners — everyone in the community wrapping their arms around them — really gives them that second chance.

A model for Maryland and beyond

Since its launch, JSCI — the only program of its kind in Maryland — has made a measurable impact with over seventy referrals in its first eight months. Its success is gaining attention across the state, with Harford and Frederick Community Colleges already exploring how to replicate the model. Following a recent presentation at the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE) Pathways to Prosperity Summit, community colleges in Arizona and Indiana have also reached out to learn how they can launch a JSCI of their own.

Carroll Community College President Rose Mince emphasizes the deeper mission behind the program. “It isn’t that people don’t want to pursue education, but something has gotten in their way,” she said. “This coming together of eight partners — everyone in the community wrapping their arms around them — really gives them that second chance.”

“I think it’s going to yield dividends for the people of Carroll County, in terms of reducing recidivism,” said Carroll County State’s Attorney Haven Shoemaker. Indeed, whether one is looking to earn a credential, complete their GED, start a career or launch a business, JSCI offers the tools, support and opportunities to make it happen.

“I’m not just surviving, I’m thriving!” Schreiner trumpeted. “And it’s solely because this program gave me access to these opportunities.”

This article was originally posted here.