My name is Jim Willfred, and I am deeply committed to raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and supporting those affected by substance abuse. My diverse life experiences have fueled an unwavering desire to assist individuals struggling with substance use disorders and to spare other parents from the heartache of losing a child, as I have.

I battled substance use disorder for 20 years before breaking free in 2004. I received the Individual Achievement Award from Governor Bond for effectively leveraging assistance from government agencies to rebuild my life. I had the opportunity to speak before 500 government officials to highlight the importance of their work. I was also invited by a leading organization to attend a weekend conference in the city and later returned to St. Louis to run a mentoring program focused on teaching fathers how to be effective. In 2005, I joined the carpenters’ union, where I have dedicated 20 years to my role as a Millwright.

In 2006, just two years after overcoming substance use disorder, I purchased my first home. Over the following 16 years, I opened my doors to individuals battling substance use disorders. In 2011, I launched “A Second Chance at Life.” However, the timing was not right, and I faced numerous challenges, including financial ruin and the loss of five immediate family members. Tragically, on the 20th of March, 2023, my son Austin was poisoned by fentanyl. Since that day, all of my experiences, coupled with a profound passion, have inspired me to revive “A Second Chance.” Now, I am committed to not only providing sober living homes, but also focusing on advocacy, legislative efforts, drug prevention education, and fostering coalitions and collaborations.

While it is too late to save my child, I am driven by the hope of saving others.