Simply Blessed Second Chances is more than a name—it is my testimony.

 

          I was born Tanesha Lavon James and placed into foster care as a toddler. Born to a teenage mother struggling with substance abuse and mental illness, my life of second chances began at the age of four when I was adopted and became Tanesha Lavon Carroll. From a young age, responsibility became part of my daily life. By eight years old, I was preparing meals for my family. At the time, cooking felt like a chore—especially as one of the youngest in a household of six children—but God already had a purpose in mind.

 

         Those early lessons taught me discipline, resilience, and valuable life skills that I carry with me today. While I am deeply grateful for my adoptive family, my childhood was not without pain. I was often reminded of my biological background and was told I would likely repeat my mother’s mistakes. What was meant to discourage me instead became my motivation to succeed. At fourteen, overwhelmed by circumstances at home, I ran away. During that season, I was introduced to drugs, unhealthy relationships, and life on the streets. This path led to repeated encounters with law enforcement. At eighteen, I found myself in a police station taking responsibility for a drug charge to protect my boyfriend from returning to prison. But God had another plan. An officer looked at me and said, “Go home. You’re not who we’re looking for. Get your life together.” Those words changed my life. The very next day, I went to the unemployment office and applied for jobs. Within a year, I was hired by the Illinois Department of Corrections, beginning my career as a Correctional Officer at just twenty years old. I made the difficult decision to walk away from my former lifestyle—and from that relationship. Eight months later, my ex-boyfriend was sentenced to fifteen years in federal prison. Over the past 26 years with the Illinois Department of Corrections, I have experienced tremendous growth and transformation. I began my career aggressive, judgmental, and unaware of the power of purpose.

 

          Through God’s grace, life lessons, and service, I came to understand that my role was not just to enforce rules—but to encourage, guide, and help others prepare for productive lives beyond incarceration. I have served in several roles, including Correctional Officer, Sergeant, and currently Food Service Supervisor. Throughout my career, watching young people cycle in and out of the prison system has been heartbreaking. For decades, I felt called to help youth more directly. I attempted to adopt and foster, but neither opportunity materialized. I later realized why—God’s plan was bigger. He didn’t want me to help just one. He wanted me to help many. That calling gave birth to Simply Blessed Second Chances—a nonprofit rooted in redemption, restoration, and hope. Our mission is to empower individuals with the tools, support, and encouragement needed to create lasting change and embrace the second chances they deserve.