Start Our Success (SOS) Program

WCAC's Start Our Success program, contracted by the City of Worcester and funded through the state Community Safety Initiative, collaborates with the Worcester Police Department's Gang Unit. Under the SOS Program, the WPD has met one-on-one with appropriate young adults, high risk probationers, and recently released Worcester offenders ages 17-24 to determine if they were appropriate for the program. Through these referrals by the WPD Gang Unit, WCAC has enrolled offenders and provided them with GED preparation, life skills workshops, internships, computer classes, English as a second language courses, work skills, substance abuse and mental health counseling, and employment opportunities.

The WCAC Case Manager/Job Developer will continue to follow-up with the current cohort of young men. The SOS program is not enrolling new participants at this time.

The Case Manager/Job Developer and participants will continue to strive to meet goals and adhere to a time table for achieving the following: GED preparation; financial literacy, housing referrals, conflict resolution (mediation), improving family and peer relationships; Reconnecting Youth programs; computer education, English as a second Language; internships in local companies and organizations; work skills classes; and employment paid through the employer. WCAC will also continue to refer current participants to specialized vocational training and substance abuse/mental health counseling services that are not provided by WCAC.

The Case Manager/Job Developer will meet as needed with each participant to track progress and solve problems. Staff will also meet with internship and work supervisors, and others involved with current participants.

For More Information Contact:

Todd Smith, Case Manager/Job Developer
Phone: (508) 754-1176 x134
Email: tsmith@wcac.net