Children of incarcerated parents face stigma, instability, and a fragmented support system. Most likely, they have grown up with financial stresses from basic everyday life. When it comes time to plan for college, it is doubtful that a college savings fund has been accruing interest at their parent’s bank. This time can be stressful enough on a high school student living in an ideal world. Their heads are spinning about where to apply, writing the essay to stand out, what do I want to be when I grow up??? For a family stretched thin on finances, it can seem unattainable. The more they think, the more overwhelming it becomes, and they are flailing without a rescue rope to grab. It’s not even that complicated—-they need basic human needs that we all need—- love, understanding, acceptance, encouragement and stability. They need to be seen and heard and understood.
This is where a our strong mentorship program fills in the blanks. By providing solid support through meaningful, viable opportunities that create a sense of belonging for these students, they gain confidence and build people skills for a career and a healthy social presence.
Key components of our mentorship program:
Holistic support: mentoring focused on emotional healing, resilience, and leadership development.
Practical guidance: assistance with FAFSA, college essays, admissions, and career counseling.
Expanded training: vocational and technical options (for example, CPR certification), hands-on learning, and alternatives to traditional classrooms.
Asset-based approach: identifying and cultivating individual strengths—public speaking, bilingualism, creativity—and measuring growth in social-emotional skills such as leadership, emotional regulation, conflict resolution, and resilience.
Long-term impact: sustained mentorship, community support, and measurable outcomes aimed at reducing future justice-system involvement.
Invest in these dynamic individuals, because they all STAND A CHANCE. I have confidence in them to thrive and succeed, and most importantly BE HAPPY and proud of themselselves.
Sue Ann Staton
Founder & Director
If you are considering being a MENTOR, please do it! Just say YES. It will undoubtedly be a rewarding experience that you will cherish. Opportunities available for MALE and FEMALE of any age in any location. I will connect you with the ideal student.
Make a Difference
More than 5 million U.S. children have had a parent in jail or prison at some point in their lives. The incarceration of a parent can have a profound impact on a child’s well-being. While most states spend heavily on corrections, few resources exist to address the increased poverty and stress that children of incarcerated parents experience. Your contribution to STAND A CHANCE makes a difference as we implement more mentorships and other programs to strengthen their support system and improve their mental well-being.
He’s been locked up for most of her life. He was in jail when she was born, now he is going back to prison on a parole violation. He promises to be home by her next birthday, since he just missed another one. Incarceration is creates discord for the entire family unit, but none affected so deeply as the children.