The Board
Our history
A 2nd Chance At Life Foundation has been officially recognized as a 501(c)(3) organization since 2022. But the Founder, Renee Jewitt, and her husband, Samuel, have been involved in reentry efforts long before the organization was established by serving as second-chance employers through their for-profit businesses. Through their commitment to being part of the solution in their community, they have provided returning citizens with opportunities for gainful employment, stable housing, mentorship, and support during the transition back into society.
Their firsthand experience working with justice-involved individuals revealed the many barriers returning citizens face after release, including lack of employment opportunities, housing instability, limited resources, and difficulty rebuilding their lives. Recognizing the need for structured support and workforce development, they founded A 2nd Chance At Life Foundation to help bridge those gaps and create pathways toward long-term stability, self-sufficiency, and successful reintegration into the community.
Today, the foundation continues its mission by focusing on workforce training, life skills development, transitional support services, mentorship, and community partnerships designed to empower individuals with the tools and opportunities needed to build productive and successful futures.
Secretary
Shamon Richardson is a respected tax professional and entrepreneur with more than 15 years of experience in the tax industry. As the owner of Elance Service Bureau, she has built a reputation for leadership, professionalism, and a strong commitment to helping others succeed financially. A proud native of Shreveport, Shamon understands firsthand the challenges many individuals in the community face, including the cycle of incarceration and recidivism that affects countless families.
When presented with the opportunity to become involved with A 2nd Chance At Life Foundation, Shamon immediately recognized the importance of the mission and did not hesitate to lend her expertise and support. Although she officially serves as the organization’s Secretary, her impact extends far beyond her title. Shamon plays a vital role in the foundation’s growth, operations, and outreach efforts, bringing both strategic insight and compassionate leadership to the organization.
Her passion for community empowerment, second chances, and economic stability makes her an invaluable asset to the foundation. Through her dedication, professionalism, and servant leadership, Shamon continues to help create opportunities that inspire transformation, restore dignity, and build stronger futures for returning citizens and underserved individuals throughout the community.
Treasurer
Rosslynn Bledsoe Joseph is a seasoned financial professional whose wisdom, discipline, and visionary leadership have made her an invaluable asset to A 2nd Chance At Life Foundation. With more than 40 years of experience in the financial arena, Rosslynn has dedicated her career to helping organizations and individuals build strong financial foundations through strategic planning, accountability, and sound fiscal management.
Known for her exceptional budgeting expertise and deep understanding of financial operations, Rosslynn brings a level of knowledge and professionalism that strengthens every aspect of the organization. Her ability to develop sustainable financial strategies, maintain organizational balance, and ensure responsible stewardship of resources plays a critical role in helping the foundation continue its mission of serving the community with integrity and excellence.
Rosslynn’s disciplined approach to financial planning, combined with her visionary mindset, allows her to see both the immediate and long-term needs of a nonprofit organization. She understands what it takes to keep a nonprofit financially healthy, compliant, and positioned for growth while maximizing its ability to impact lives. Her guidance helps ensure that resources are managed effectively so programs and services can continue to reach those who need them most.
Beyond her financial expertise, Rosslynn is respected for her leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to community empowerment. Her dedication to excellence and her passion for helping organizations thrive make her a trusted advisor, a strong leader, and an essential part of the foundation’s continued success.