Access is often seen in terms of education, technology, or opportunity, but what about the access to rehabilitation, redemption, and second chances? Cesiah Lopez explores the transformative impact of prison-based programs that pair incarcerated individuals with shelter animals an initiative that redefines access for both humans and animals alike. Drawing from her experience as a social work intern at the Dallas County Jail, Lopez sees firsthand how these programs can provide incarcerated individuals with access to healing, responsibility, and hope, while also giving shelter animals a chance at a new life. This topic matters because the U.S. prison system struggles with high recidivism rates and a lack of effective rehabilitation programs. By highlighting how access to meaningful connections such as those formed between inmates and animals can reduce violence, improve mental health, and lower re-incarceration rates, Lopez challenges audiences to rethink rehabilitation. This discussion is not just about prisons but about society as a whole: Who do we give second chances to, and why? Cesiah Lopez is a dedicated social work student at Texas Woman’s University and an intern with Volunteers of America at the Resolana Program, located within the Dallas County Jail. Passionate about restorative justice, Cesiah provides trauma-informed and gender-responsive support to incarcerated women, assisting with reentry case management, conducting intake assessments, and facilitating healing-centered programming. Her work places her at the intersection of advocacy, compassion, and change, where she witnesses both the challenges of incarceration and the power of second chances. Drawing from her lived experiences in the field, Cesiah is committed to uplifting underrepresented voices and inspiring systemic reform. With a heart for service and a vision for hope, Cesiah uses her platform to reimagine rehabilitation through innovative, human-centered approaches--such as prison-based animal programs that transform lives on both ends of the leash. Her voice is one of empathy, action, and unwavering belief in the power of redemption. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx