Charles was appointed President & Chief Executive Officer of Volunteers of America of Massachusetts (VOAMASS) in 2019. He is just the third President at VOAMASS in the past half-century. Known across Massachusetts as a leader in community development and as an advocate of innovative services, Charles has extensive experience in the areas of affordable housing, economic development, workforce development, and behavioral health.
Before taking the helm at VOAMASS, Charles served as the Chief Operating Officer for South Middlesex Opportunity Council, Inc. (SMOC). Since joining SMOC in 1994, he held a variety of positions at the agency, including in economic development, project management, real estate development, behavioral health services, program development, and strategic planning. Charles was also instrumental in leading the SMOC Housing Corporation to develop and manage over 2,000 units across the Commonwealth.
Charles received his Bachelor of Science at Saint John’s University in Collegeville, MN, and a Master’s degree in Public Affairs from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs.