A former convict credits a Nassau program with giving her a second chance.

Nefertiti Garnett spent seven years in upstate prison for identity theft and stealing money. Once out of prison, she was arrested again in Nassau County for driving without a license. Instead of being locked up, a judge ordered the 40-year-old to go to the Woman's Opportunity Rehabilitation Center in Hempstead.

WORC is an educational and vocational program aimed at helping women avoid jail time or get back on their feet after serving time behind bars. The program is six months. Those who take part in it learn computer skills and life skills. They also go through counseling and substance abuse treatment. The program is run by Diane Gaines.

“It’s a very structured program but it's a very nurturing and supportive program,” says Gaines. “A lot of women that come through this program have never had this type of support. They never had this type of guidance and they need the structure.”

“I feel like I have my life back because of her,” says Garnett. “Honestly, I can’t thank her enough.”

There are currently 13 women in the WORC program, and 12 of them avoided jail time.

But not all women graduate. Last year, 71 women were accepted into the program but more than half didn't successfully make it through.

“The idea is it's a two-way street,” says Nassau DA Madeline Singas. “We very much want these women to succeed but if they can't succeed then they will be held accountable according to the original deal “

The WORC program has been around for more than 25 years and more than 1,000 women have benefited from it.

Nefertiti, who is now working in construction, had a message to women going through WORC. 

“We all did something wrong - and you do have to pay for what you do,” she said. “But if she's willing to give you another chance, why not take that chance and do better?”