Safe Homes LGBTQ youth program wins community activism award

In November, Safe Homes Worcester program director Oscar Oliveira Soens and his colleague Heather Stravato spent a whirlwind weekend in New Orleans, surrounded by nonprofit workers from across the world at the National Organization for Human Services’ annual conference.

Read the full article in Worcester Magazine here!

In November, Safe Homes Worcester program director Oscar Oliveira Soens and his colleague Heather Stravato spent a whirlwind weekend in New Orleans, surrounded by nonprofit workers from across the world at the National Organization for Human Services’ annual conference.

The duo, who both work at Open Sky Community Services in Worcester, were there to accept the year’s Community Activism award on behalf of Safe Homes, a long-running LGBTQ youth program.

“It was a huge honor to be recognized nationally for the work being done here in Worcester. For this small little place to get this national award, it’s just amazing,” said Stravato, who is Open Sky’s service director for child, adolescent and young adult services.

“Open Sky’s unwavering commitment to creating a more equitable society is evident through its innovative programs and strategic partnerships,” award nominator and Employment Options Executive Director Shannon Leary said in a press release.  “Safe Homes has become a beacon of hope and support for LGBTQIA+ youth, and Open Sky’s leadership, compassion, and integrity are truly inspiring.”

The Community Activism Award honors contributions of individuals, groups or organizations for a deep commitment to social justice and significant impacts in their local, state, regional, national or international communities, the press release said.