Second Course graduated its fifth cohort in May.
Twenty-two students this time we'd expanded to accommodate the increased demand from the documentary.
The ceremony was held at Famiglia. Families came. Press came. Local politicians came including one state senator who'd introduced legislation to fund programs like ours.
"Programs that provide real job training to formerly incarcerated individuals reduce recidivism by 43%," she said in her speech. "The Moretti family has shown us what's possible when we invest in second chances instead of just punishment. This is the model we need to replicate across the state."
After the ceremony, a young woman approached me. Early twenties, nervous.
"Mrs. Moretti? I'm Vanessa. I was at the Webb rescue. One of the thirteen girls you saved. I've been following your work. The documentary, Second Course, everything. And I wanted you to know you saved me twice."
"Twice?"
