CWS March 2026 Newsletter

Graduation Celebration

CWS proudly celebrated graduates from several of its training programs at a special Graduation Ceremony on March 12th. Executive Director Craig Stenning and Program Director Tanya Figelman welcomed graduates and guests, while the CWS Culinary Team provided refreshments for attendees, including community partners, family and friends, staff, and members of the CWS Board of Directors. The ceremony also honored Craig for his many years of dedicated leadership and service to CWS. As Craig prepares to step down as Executive Director in April, the CWS team extends its heartfelt gratitude for his guidance, commitment, and lasting impact on the organization.

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Hospitality Training Program graduate Russell Smith shared his moving success story and received the Participant Award. He emphasized how CWS supported his transition into permanent housing and helped him secure employment with a leading automobile rental services company. Russell credited the CWS team with helping him navigate significant life challenges and build a strong foundation for new opportunities. In addition, Tatte Bakery & Café was recognized with the Employer Partnership Award for its continued commitment to hiring CWS graduates across a variety of culinary positions.

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‍TradesReady Program

CWS is excited to launch TradesReady: Safety, Skills, and Employment, a 9-week training program that prepares participants for entry level careers in construction and the skilled trades. TradesReady combines classroom learning, hands on lab experience, and job readiness training to build strong technical and workplace skills. Participants learn worksite safety, tool use, construction fundamentals, and introductory trade skills through realistic jobsite scenarios.

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The program includes training in demolition and reconstruction, basic HVAC, plumbing and electrical work, framing, drywall, finishing carpentry, and painting. Participants earn their OSHA-30 certification and receive resume support, interview preparation, and job placement assistance. Graduates complete the program with practical experience, industry credentials, and a clear pathway into the skilled trades.

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March Job Fair

CWS hosted another well-attended Job Fair on March 11th. We welcomed employer partner representatives from many different industries including Colwen Hotels (Marriott), Massis Staffing, Boston Public Library, Wonolo Staffing, My Ombudsman, Executive Office of Health & Human Services, Just a Start, and Bay State Community Services.

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Participants enjoyed connecting with hiring managers and learning more about different employment opportunities. We look forward to hosting more Job Fairs in the coming months. For more information about upcoming events, please contact CWS Employment Specialist Christine Polcari at CPolcari@cwsne.org.

Wynn Resorts Charitable Giving Workshop

CWS staff attended the Wynn Resorts Charitable Giving and Grant Guidelines Workshop at Encore Boston Harbor on February 3rd. The session highlighted Wynn Resorts’ charitable initiatives, including the Community Grant Fund, and other signature programs. Attendees also learned about best practices, and ways to strengthen partnerships with Wynn Resorts.

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Commercial Cleaning Offsite

The CWS Commercial Cleaning Department delivers comprehensive, professional cleaning services to a wide range of offsite locations throughout the Boston area. Through this program, participant workers build valuable skills by supporting essential cleaning operations, including floor care and specialized deep-cleaning services. This hands-on experience promotes skill development, teamwork, and readiness for future employment placements.

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Staff Spotlight: Brian O’Connor

CWS Commercial Production Manager Brian O’Connor oversees the Commercial Production Training Program and offsite projects with partner companies. The program provides hands‑on training in packaging and product preparation, order fulfillment, inventory control, basic warehousing, workplace safety, food processing equipment, and shipping and receiving.

Brian joined CWS in 2018, bringing years of experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and working in business‑focused roles. He manages a team of 20+ disabled individuals and takes pride in helping participants develop marketable skills, achieve financial stability, and thrive in a positive, team‑based work environment. Brian also enjoys building partnerships with vendors who share a strong commitment to working with individuals with disabilities.

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Participant Success Story

Phyllis came to CWS to upgrade her training skills and recently provided a personal testimonial to share her positive experience.

I have landed a job at Bloomingdale’s as a Shopper’s Assistant. I kept striving and applying to jobs. While attending CWS, I completed the At Your Service: Hotel and Hospitality course and the Job Readiness course. I was applying to over 10 jobs a day; I had decided to stop counting them because I didn't want to get discouraged, I just kept applying. I had talked to Amanda regarding my past. I have an open case and was working in human service prior. Amanda kept reminding me that my past does not define my future. She has given me hope and words to change my mindset, so I applied them to my journey.

This program has given me a different outlook on myself and how I used to look at myself. It rebuilt my self-confidence, my mindset, and hope. My biggest takeaway "ah moment" from this class is to know that I am not alone with my struggles and that I can achieve anything when I put my mind to it. I would tell anyone that is considering this program: it’s a lot of information and resources. There is someone here that can relate and understand your needs.

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