Since taking the helm at VOAMASS in 2019, Charles has used his extensive experience to champion whole-person, integrated care as the organization’s service model and mission.
Charles is known throughout Massachusetts as a leader in community development and an advocate of innovative services. He uses his expertise in the areas of behavioral health, affordable housing, and workforce development to establish programs and policy aimed at ending housing, health, and income disparities.
Charles serves on the boards of the Association for Behavioral Healthcare and Massachusetts Workforce Association, as well as the national Volunteers of America organization and its Church governing board.
Prior to joining VOAMASS, Charles spent 25 years at the South Middlesex Opportunity Council (SMOC), serving as Chief Operating Officer from 2008-2019. During his tenure at SMOC, Charles was instrumental in leading the SMOC Housing Corporation, developing and managing more than 2,000 housing units across the Commonwealth. He holds a master’s degree from the Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs and a bachelor’s degree from Saint John’s University in Minnesota.