Monday, June 9, 2025

Today, Fathers’ UpLift proudly participated in the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Workforce Development Grant Summit, hosted by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS). Held at Framingham State University, the event celebrated significant achievements among grantees and facilitated important conversations about workforce advancement, policy improvements, and ongoing sector needs.

Celebrating Our HCBS Workforce Development Grant

In Fall 2023, Fathers’ UpLift received funding from the HCBS and Human Services Workforce Grant. This critical support allowed us to launch our United States Therapist Recruitment (USTR) Program in Spring 2023, specifically aimed at increasing the number of licensed therapists from historically underrepresented backgrounds in the mental and behavioral health fields.

Fathers’ UpLift was among 82 grant recipients, enrolling 12 exceptional graduate students from accredited institutions across Boston and throughout the United States into our inaugural USTR Fellowship cohort. Each fellow benefited from extensive professional support, including:

• A substantial $15,000 stipend

• Coverage of licensure costs and preparation courses

• Comprehensive professional mentorship and career guidance

• Opportunities for employment and access to expert lectures

Spotlighting Success and Impact at the Summit

The HCBS Workforce Grant Summit brought together state leaders, policy experts, and fellow grant recipients to share experiences, discuss effective practices, and strategize for ongoing improvement. Fathers’ UpLift was honored as one of five organizations selected to present on the main panel, recognized particularly for our successful work through the USTR Fellowship.

Massachusetts Secretary of Health and Human Services, Kate Walsh, delivered an insightful keynote address. The summit’s breakout sessions were led by state leaders including Alysia Ordway (Undersecretary of Workforce Development), Toni Wolf (Commissioner, OF MasAbility), and Sarah Peterson (Commissioner, Department of Developmental Services).

Our team, represented by Zack Osheroff, Senior Program Director, and Dr. Anthony Owens, Affiliate Educational and Opportunities Manager, actively contributed. Dr. Owens was a featured panelist in the breakout session, “Internships that Work for the Organization and Student,” sharing practical strategies and positive outcomes from our USTR Program.

Highlighting a Notable USTR Success Story

During the summit, Dr. Owens showcased a compelling story of achievement from our initial USTR Fellowship group. One fellow completed his Master of Social Work (MSW) at Boston College in 2025, subsequently passing his licensure exam and beginning his practice as a licensed therapist in Boston. Fathers’ UpLift has retained this individual as a fee-for-service therapist, highlighting our tangible commitment to professional development and workforce growth.

Moving Forward Together

The HCBS Workforce Grant Summit underscored the importance of collective efforts and strong partnerships across the healthcare sector. Fathers’ UpLift sincerely appreciates the continued support and resources provided by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services, enabling us to sustainably enhance professional pathways and support the mental and behavioral health workforce across Massachusetts.

Stay tuned as we continue building stronger communities through meaningful professional growth and empowerment.