Mental Health Human Services

WILLIAM COLSON

*** ***** **. *** *****, BRISTOL, CT 06010 H: 860-***-**** ****************@*****.*** PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Over 25 years of professional experience in the field of human services, with a focus on mental health, addiction, and the unhoused population, while creating pathways for a better quality of life. SKILLS

• Proficient leadership skills

• Good judgment and decision making

• Skilled in community outreach

• Ability to work independently

• Ability to adapt to changes quickly

and work under challenging

conditions

• Solutions development

• Incidents management

• Knowledge of security

procedures/premise surveillance

• Adept at strengths-based/solutions-

oriented counseling

• Adept at staff supervision

EXPERIENCE

8/2024-11/2024 Thomas Merton Center – Bridgeport, CT Independent Consultant/Contract

• Case Management Program Structure Development emphasizing short-term treatment plans lasting 30-90 days with the ability to show matrix impact of services

• Assisted Development officer in planning the TMC 50th Anniversary celebration and reception at Housatonic Community College.

• Collaborated with the part-time building manager to oversee all aspects of facility maintenance

• Organized and assisted with new leadership to conduct training sessions for staff across various departments, enhancing their skills and ensuring consistency in delivery of service and professionalism

• Supported the interim director and donor relations staff in expanding donor and partner relationships with key stakeholders in the community.

• Ensured that the agency’s mission and operational standards continue to be met 8/2018- 8/2024 Thomas Merton Center – Bridgeport, CT Director, Thomas Merton Family Center

• Developed and monitor program budget

• Ensured timely and accurate financial reports as well as compliance with financial policy

• Oversee the capital campaign to support the new Thomas Merton Family Center

• Managed all aspects of facility maintenance

• Provided strong advocacy for the program at the local, regional, and county levels

• Collaborated with affinity organizations to build capacity and enhance the program’s scope of services

• Assured a nurturing and positive atmosphere for guests, staff, volunteers, and visitors in accordance with the program’s philosophy and mission

• Hired, supervised, evaluated staff performance while providing necessary mentorship

• In conjunction with the Executive Director, worked with the advisory council in the development and execution of fundraising activities, and implementation of strategic planning and quality improvement requirements.

5/2014 – 8/2018 Thomas Merton Center – Bridgeport, CT Operations Manager/ Former Operational Coordinator

Support the Director in day-to-day management of services

Ensure adherence to all agency program policies and procedures

Responsible for recruitment/coordination of guest volunteer activities.

Responsible for supervision of Title V participants; Development of soft skills for re- entry into the workforce.

Facilitate Thomas Merton Center Human Service Coordinator meetings.

Assist guest population by providing support for homelessness, substance abuse and mental health services.

Make appropriate referrals to other area social service providers.

Explore potential expansion of services and collaborations with other agencies.

Assist Director with supervision of custodial staff/security personnel. 07/2014– 8/2018 Connecticut Renaissance – Bridgeport, CT Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor

• Facilitate intensive outpatient therapy groups

• Facilitate relapse prevention groups

• Conduct intake assessments

• Prepare treatment plans

• Make appropriate discharges and referrals

• Report to state and federal agencies regarding client progress 6/2012 – 1/2014 Midwestern Connecticut Counseling on Alcoholism- Waterbury, CT Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor

• Facilitated intensive outpatient therapy groups

• Completed integrated intake assessments

• Maintained treatment plans

• Made appropriate referrals for behavioral and mental health services

• Observed and monitored client behavior and responses to treatment. EDUCATION

Master of Science: Human Services in Organizational Leadership and Management Springfield College – Springfield, MA

Bachelor of Science: Human Services

Springfield College – Springfield, MA

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Collaborated with Catholic Diocese to establish an independent living residency Established the first all men’s support group at Thomas Merton Center in Bridgeport, CT Former volunteer at Bread for Life soup kitchen in Southington, CT Former volunteer principal/youth advisor of area Islamic Studies Sunday School Program Developed policies and procedures regarding building and public safety for non-profit organization. Member of the Board of Trustees of Waterbury Islamic Cultural Center

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