A Boca Raton nonprofit is offering paid work to women in recovery from addiction, giving them a supportive setting to build skills and rebuild their lives.
The organization, Her Second Chance, was founded by Keely Copeland, who said a criminal record from a drunken driving conviction made it hard to land even an interview after she left college. She later built a career in hotel marketing and now lives in Hong Kong with her husband and their 1-year-old daughter.
The organization operates as a social enterprise that employs women in recovery for one year. Participants earn income and work toward greater self-sufficiency. Christina Betrus, who has been sober for nine months, said she got her job after learning the recovery residence she entered had a connection to the group.
Staff members make products such as beaded bracelets and personalized mugs. The items are sold to the public, and profits are reinvested in the group’s mission. According to the organization, each mug sold generates 22 minutes of paid work.
Sarah Lucas, a board member who has been sober for almost 19 years, said the group depends on community members who buy its products. The organization plans an open house on Thursday, Nov. 12, to introduce a new product line.
