Today we’d like to introduce you to Shawn Serfass.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Shawn Serfass grew up navigating hardship, bad decisions, and the kind of struggles that could have easily defined the rest of his life. Instead, he chose to rebuild — slowly, painfully, and intentionally — through faith, accountability, and the belief that people aren’t limited by their past. Over the years, Shawn transformed himself from someone battling adversity to a successful entrepreneur, husband, father, and mentor, leading multiple businesses and becoming a voice of authenticity through the Forgiven AF Podcast.
But something stayed heavy on his heart: the lack of real support for people who just needed one person to believe in them. Shawn remembered what it felt like to not have guidance, structure, or second chances. And he knew firsthand how life-changing it is when someone finally steps in to help you rewrite your story.
That calling led him to create 2nd Chance Mentors — a nonprofit dedicated to giving youth, justice-impacted individuals, and struggling men and women the mentorship, structure, and real-world support he wished he had earlier in life. The mission is simple: meet people where they are, give them tools and community, remind them of their value, and help them step into the future they were created for.
Today, 2nd Chance Mentors has become an extension of Shawn’s own redemption story — proof that your past doesn’t disqualify you. In fact, it prepares you to help others rise.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Shawn’s journey has been marked by an occasional battle with self-doubt, especially in carrying the label of a felon while trying to rebuild a life of purpose. For years, that title felt like a barrier that closed doors before he could even knock — especially in the areas he cared most about, like mentoring youth and getting involved in schools. He had to overcome not only society’s assumptions, but also the internal voice that questioned whether he was worthy of leading, teaching, or being trusted again. Through perseverance, transparency, and a commitment to growth, Shawn pushed past those limitations, proving that transformation is real and that a person’s past does not define their future. His ability to rise above stigma is what now allows him to pour into young people with unmatched authenticity and credibility.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
2nd Chance Mentors is a nonprofit dedicated to helping youth and adults break cycles, rebuild confidence, and create a future beyond their past. Built on the belief that mentorship, structure, and real-life guidance change lives, the organization connects individuals with mentors who understand struggle, growth, and redemption firsthand. Through school partnerships, community programs, life-skills training, and consistent support, 2nd Chance Mentors provides the accountability and encouragement people need to rewrite their story. The mission is simple but powerful: to show every person — no matter their background — that they are worthy of opportunity, capable of change, and deserving of a second chance.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Along the way, the most important lesson I’ve learned is that giving back and serving others changes more than just the people you help—it changes you. I’ve learned that first, service creates purpose; when you invest in others, especially those who feel overlooked, your own life gains deeper meaning. Second, giving back builds real impact through relationships, not recognition—showing up consistently matters more than applause. And third, serving others multiplies hope; when you pour encouragement, resources, and belief into someone else, it often comes back in ways you never expected, reminding you that true success is measured by lives changed, not titles earned.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://2ndchancementors.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawn2ndchance
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F9DgP61FH/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@forgivenafpodcast
