Fresh Start Second Chances
Submitted by Najah Allen
Fresh Start Second Chances, Inc. hosted their Annual Scholarship Workshop Ceremony in June at Sweet Bliss Event Space in Rahway, NJ. This event celebrated Rahway High School seniors who participated in a five-month workshop dedicated to researching, drafting, revising, and submitting scholarship applications. Sponsored by Reworld and Dropped Along the Way, the ceremony exceeded its goal of $10,000, awarding over $15,000 in scholarships. Students received scholarships from various organizations, including Rahway Chamber of Commerce, Pomptonian Food Service, Union County Club, It’s Kairos Time, RHSAAA, Inc., and regional sororities.
The workshop offered mentorship, volunteer opportunities, career guidance, essay assistance, and personalized scholarship searches for each student. The Annual Scholarship Workshop, which will continue yearly for Rahway High School seniors with financial need, aims to address the high costs of higher education that can lead to significant debt. Rising education costs disproportionately impact minority students, which often limit their access to social and economic mobility. Fresh Start Second Chances, Inc. seeks to combat these issues by supporting students through the scholarship application process and staying in contact with them for up to a year after graduation, offering continued guidance and support.
Students who participated in the workshop expressed disbelief at being selected for scholarships worth $1,000 or more. They credited the program with boosting their confidence and helping them produce their best work. Parents were kept informed throughout the process and appreciated the support given to their child. Fresh Start Second Chances, Inc. plans to expand the workshop to increase the number of students and scholarship goal for the 2025 graduating class.
Najah Allen, the founder of Fresh Start Second Chances, Inc. and creator of The Scholarship Workshop, is dedicated to providing services and resources to marginalized individuals in need of a second chance. Her nonprofit focuses on fostering equitable lifestyles and creating opportunities for those in need. Najah Allen is also a member of The Rahway Social Justice Commission, Rahway Board of Education, NAACP-Rahway, and a volunteer with many organizations in Rahway and Union County. Since 2020, she has addressed the needs of the youth, assisted low-income communities with community relations and employment, resume building, and employment support for those formerly incarcerated.
If you know any Rahway High School 2025 juniors or seniors, who need help selecting which University to attend and in need of volunteer hours, or anyone who would like to volunteer as a mentor for The Scholarship Workshop, please contact freshstartsecondchances@gmail.com.
