Scammers are going door-to-door in San Diego, pretending to be representatives of a reputable local charity. They're asking people to donate money, or buy candy, to put troubled kids through school.
They say they are with Second Chance, a legitimate charity in San Diego, which helps hundreds of teens each year coming out of juvenile hall. The non-profit teaches them life and job skills.
“On our website, we (make it clear that we) absolutely never solicit door-to-door,” said Trisha Gooch, who is with Second Chance.
Gooch said there is at least one ring of imposters, and possibly some lone wolves, who have been scamming people using the name “Second Chance Youth Program” for years.
“This is going on all over the county. All over the state. And in many cases out of the state,” she said. “They make up some kind of a badge. They put their driver’s license on it so you think it all legal but anyone can make up a badge that says anything."
Police told her they can’t do anything unless the imposters are caught in the act.
The real Second Chance holds fundraisers, such as the upcoming "Orange is the New Black: Season 2, Teens Behind Bars" on May 20. The event is from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Qualcomm Hall in Sorrento Valley.
To learn more, or donate to the real Second Chance, visit their website at: www.secondchanceprogram.org.
