Sheriff’s Office Regional Reentry Center Honored at Worcester City Council Meeting
[WORCESTER] — The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Regional Reentry Center received the Community Activism Award from the National Organization for Human Services at the organization’s national conference on November 8, 2025. The Regional Reentry Center was recognized for its holistic, person-centered approach to supporting successful reentry and long-term stability for individuals involved in the criminal justice system and returning to Worcester County communities.
Worcester Mayor Joseph Petty and the Worcester City Council formally recognized the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Regional Reentry Center (RRC) during the Worcester City Council meeting on Tuesday, November 18, at Worcester City Hall. The ceremony highlighted the Center’s selection as the recipient of the Community Activism Award from the National Organization for Human Services (NOHS), a national nonprofit dedicated to enhancing human services, supporting professionals, and promoting excellence through advocacy, professional development, and collaboration.
The NOHS Community Activism Award honors individuals, groups, and organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to the communities they serve, equitable access to services, and community transformation. In its notification, NOHS highlighted the Reentry Center’s leadership, collaboration, and model of systemic advocacy, noting the program’s lasting impact on individuals and families throughout Central Massachusetts.
Sheriff Lew Evangelidis expressed deep gratitude for the recognition, noting that it reflected the dedication of the Regional Reentry Center team and the broader mission of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office.
“This award is particularly gratifying because the concept of a reentry center originated with one employee through a grant and donated space,” explained Sheriff Evangelidis. “Over the past 15 years, the reentry center has evolved into an extraordinary service organization that serves as a national model. It was incredibly humbling for our Regional Reentry Center to receive this national award, especially among so many outstanding initiatives and dedicated professionals across the country.”
The Regional Reentry Center, located at 365 Main Street, Worcester, provides a comprehensive continuum of services to those involved in the criminal justice system, including:
- Transitional and permanent housing assistance
- Mental health and substance use treatment
- Workforce development and employment opportunities
- Peer recovery coaching
- Full wraparound supports tailored to individual needs
These programs help individuals rebuild their lives, reduce recidivism, and strengthen the Worcester County community. To learn more about the center, visit the main street location, or call 508-752-1212.
Sheriff Evangelidis, the WCSO RRC team, and Worcester City Officials pose for a photo with the NOHS award, a Proclamation from the city, and a citation from the Massachusetts State Senate.
