Celebrating My Second Chance by Giving One Away

Celebrating My Second Chance by Giving One Away

I am Cooper Blackwell, and on May 3rd, 2025, I will walk the stage at North Carolina Wesleyan University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Leadership. This graduation is not just about me — it is about the power of second chances. Instead of a party or personal gifts, I am asking friends, family, and my community to help me celebrate by investing in the future of someone else.

I left college years ago with no degree, no plan, and no clear way back. Through God’s grace, hard lessons, and the encouragement of people who refused to give up on me, I fought my way back. For me, this is more than a diploma. It is the result of prayer, perseverance, and community support after nearly losing everything. Now, as a nonprofit leader at OIC of Rocky Mount, I spend my days helping others find their footing again.

I’m raising money for OIC’s Second Chance Reentry Scholarship Program, a new initiative designed to provide education and training opportunities for individuals returning from incarceration.

Every dollar raised will go directly toward scholarships that help someone get the tools, skills, and support they need to rebuild their life and reenter society with hope and dignity.

Your gift of $25 or more can help someone else experience the same second chance that changed my life forever.

️This is bigger than graduation. This is about legacy. About giving light to someone else’s new beginning.

Please consider donating and sharing. Let’s turn this celebration into a launchpad for second chances across our community.

Thank you for believing in redemption, opportunity, and the power of community.

With love and purpose,

Cooper Blackwell

#SeeItThrough #SecondChances #GraduationForGood