Volunteers Of America of MA Helps Build Essex Re-Training Program

MIDDLETON, MA — The Volunteers of America of Massachusetts is working with the Essex County Sheriff's Office to create a new position that will oversee a team of case managers and employment specialists assisting those transitioning out of Essex County's correctional facilities learn new skills, earn academic credit and secure employment.

The hiring of Michael Upson, of Worcester, comes through the Volunteers of America of Massachusetts nonprofit that seeks to create opportunities for transitioning prisoners through residential and outpatient behavioral health treatment, re-entry for incarcerated offenders, veteran services and senior living.

"We are very excited to have Michael joining VOAMASS as the inaugural program manager for this groundbreaking effort to help justice-involved individuals in Essex County succeed in re-making themselves and their careers," Charles Gagnon, President and CEO of VOAMASS, said. "Michael's experience and drive will further energize a team that is laser-focused on building a program amid the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic."

Prior to joining VOAMASS, Upson was an employment specialist at the South Middlesex Opportunity Council, where he supported the agency's job development and case management services and taught life skills courses to support individuals' efforts to secure employment.

He previously had a career in account management and sales in telecommunications.

Volunteers of America of Massachusetts provides outpatient and residential behavioral health services, including substance use and behavioral health treatment. For more information, go here.