LATEST NEWS

Employment Options is pleased to announce the appointment of Shannon Leary as the organization’s new Executive Director. Leary succeeds former Executive Director Toni A. Wolf and has been the Acting Executive Director since Wolf’s appointment as the Commissioner of the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission last summer.

Leary has worked in the non-profit arena for over 20 years, with most of her time in a leadership role focused on program development, organization operations and fundraising.  With her entrepreneurial spirit, Leary spearheaded the development of Catering Options, a social enterprise of Employment Options that provides professional training and work experience to unemployed and underemployed individuals in the MetroWest who have a passion for the culinary arts. Catering Options has been extremely successful in developing a reputation for its memorable cuisine and professionally trained, enthusiastic staff; several of whom have gone on to work in culinary positions in the community.
 
“Shannon is an innovative and energetic leader who thinks both strategically and creatively while motivating teams of professionals to perform at their best,” said Ellen Dorian, President of the Board of Directors of Employment Options. “She has proven ability in developing strategic partners and stakeholders within the community to enhance the organization.”

Leary knows she has big shoes to fill. “I continue to be inspired by Toni Wolf’s passion and energy.  She has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to individuals and families in mental health recovery and she has had a tremendous impact in MetroWest. I hope to honor her legacy by building on the foundation she and others have set.

We want the best for our staff, our stakeholders, and our members and work through innovative and creative avenues to ensure success. I am grateful to The Board of Directors for the opportunity to lead this exceptional organization and I am excited to see what the future holds for Employment Options.”

Leary holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Our Lady of the Elms College in Chicopee, MA.  She is a graduate of Leadership MetroWest and received the Department of Mental Health Northeast Suburban Community Provider of the Year award in 2010.

Leary is a member of several area Chambers of Commerce and has also served as Vice President and Board Member of the Major David Brodeur Memorial Foundation.

Employment Options empowers individuals and families in mental health recovery to thrive in their communities. The clubhouse model powerfully demonstrates that people with mental illness can be active participants in their own recovery and lead productive and fulfilling lives.