Bowser Administration to Celebrate Second Chance Month in the District

(Washington, DC) – Today, the Bowser Administration and the Mayor’s Office on Returning Citizen Affairs (MORCA) are inviting District residents to celebrate Second Chance Month, a nationwide effort dedicated to uplifting returning citizens and providing resources that support their successful reintegration into the community. Throughout April, events will highlight employment opportunities, community support, and pathways to stability for individuals with past justice system involvement.  
 
“Second Chance Month is about more than just awareness—it’s about action,” said Lamont Carey, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office on Returning Citizen Affairs. “In DC, we don’t just talk about second chances. We create them. This month, and every day, we work to break down barriers, challenge stigmas and expand opportunities to ensure returning citizens have a clear pathway to the middle class.” 
 
MORCA is committed to helping formerly incarcerated individuals rebuild their lives by connecting them with job training, educational opportunities, and essential services. 
 
Residents are invited to attend any of the following events to celebrate Second Chance Month: 
 
Jobs Not Drugs 
This event is designed for youth ages 15 to 24 in Wards 7 and 8, offering career-building resources, workforce development opportunities, and support services to help them navigate challenges related to violence and opioid prevention. Attendees will engage with employers, drug counselors, apprenticeship programs, and other key partners while earning community service hours and a Certificate of Participation.  

• When: Wednesday, April 9 at 10 am 
• Where: Our Lady of Perpetual Health, 1600 Morris Road SE 
• Register here: tinyurl.com/JobsNotDrugsSCMevent 

MORCA Author Talks 
At this event, a panel of Returning Citizen published authors will share insights into the writing process, inspiration behind their story, key themes, and personal anecdotes, including a reading excerpt from their books, followed by a question-and-answer session where attendees can interact with the author. 

• When: Thursday, April 10 at 5 pm 
• Where: Lamond-Riggs/Lillian J. Huff Library, 5401 South Dakota Avenue NE
• Register to attend: tinyurl.com/MORCAAuthorTalk 

Second Chance Clothing Drive with Broken Chains LLC 
Residents and stakeholders are invited to donate gently worn professional attire to support returning citizens as they navigate the early stages of reentry and job searching.

• When: Friday, April 18 at 12 pm 
• Where: MORCA - 2100 Martin Luther King Jr Avenue SE 

Reentry Roundtables 
A community discussion featuring individuals with lived experience, focusing on the current state of reentry and the ongoing needs of returning citizens.

• When: Friday, April 18 at 6 pm 
• Where: Deanwood Recreation Center - 1350 49th Street NE 
• Register at: tinyurl.com/MORCAReentryApril 

Welcome Home Expo for Returning Citizens 
This expo will connect returning citizens with resources, job training providers, treatment programs, and employers. The event will also feature panels on parole and probation, housing, family reunification, training programs, child support, and custody. 

• When: Wednesday, April 23 at 10 am
• Where: Stadium Armory - Drill Floor, 2001 East Capitol Street SE 
• Register at: tinyurl.com/MORCAExpo2025 

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