You have the power to make a difference in the lives of others!

Discover what's possible in the human services field and get paid training, mentorship, and career placement at our partner agencies after successful completion.

Ready to apply?

Complete an enrollment form

Omo Fagboore, Career Pipeline Manager
Omo.Fagboore@openskycs.org
(508) 318-7737

Program Overview

The HSCS Program is designed to build a pipeline of diverse and compassionate professionals committed to serving their communities through roles in behavioral health, residential services, case management, and more. It supports individuals with limited access to education, employment, and professional development opportunities, helping them establish sustainable careers in the human services field.

Career Pipeline STEM Model

A Strategic Workforce Approach

At the heart of the HSCS Program is a Career Pipeline STEM Model. This strategic framework 
ensures participants are holistically supported and professionally equipped for long-term success in human services careers. The model includes: 

• Support: to help individuals overcome barriers to employment 

• Training: that equips them with critical skills for care and service roles 

• Education: that deepens their understanding and passion for the field 

• Mentorship: that guides them toward sustainable and meaningful careers 

This core approach equips candidates to thrive not only in the workplace but also as active, 
empowered members of their communities, helping to build a diverse and skilled human 
services workforce. 

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the HSCS Program, applicants must: 

1. Have valid work authorization.

2. Must be at least 18 years old. 

3. Possess at least a learner’s permit or driver’s license. 

4. Be passionate about the health and human services field. 

5. Identify as an immigrant, refugee, underemployed, or unemployed individual seeking career growth.

Program Duration & Structure

The HSCS Program runs over 13 weeks and includes both classroom-based learning and realworld job experience: 

Weeks 1–3: Classroom training (Foundations, communication, cultural competency, etc.)

Weeks 4–6: First job rotation (practical field experience) 

Weeks 7–9: Second classroom training block (specialized training, certification prep, etc.) 

Weeks 10–12: Second job rotation (deeper skill building and exposure) 

Week 13: Capstone project and career readiness wrap-up 

Participants receive financial compensation throughout the entire program duration. 

WEEK ACTIVITY

1-3 Classroom Training (Core foundations) 

4-6 First Job Rotation (Field experience) 

7-9 Second Classroom Training (Skill specialization) 

10-12 Second Job Rotation (Advanced field experience) 

13 Capstone Project & Career Preparation/GRADUATION!!!

Training Content

The program offers comprehensive instruction in: 

1. Foundations of the human services profession 

2. Communication skills and workplace professionalism 

3. Behavioral health and trauma-informed care 

4. Cultural responsiveness and diversity 

5. Job readiness (resume writing, interview preparation, etc.) 

6. Understanding direct care roles and responsibilities and lots more.

Job Rotations

Participants engage in two separate job rotation phases, gaining hands-on experience at partner agencies. These rotations: 

• Provide exposure to different human services roles

• Help participants build confidence and practical skills

• Foster professional connections within the field 

Support Services (Wraparound Support)

To reduce barriers to participation, the program offers limited-time wraparound support 
throughout the duration of the program. Supports may include: 

• Childcare assistance 

• Transportation support 

• Driver’s license assistance 

• English language support 

• Other individualized support needed for success in the program

Career Pathways & Opportunities

Graduates of the HSCS Program are placed into full-time employment positions within the 
human services sector. Entry-level roles include: 

• Direct Support Professional 

• Residential Counselor 

• Employment Facilitator 

• And more 

Clinical and Leadership Pathway Program

Additionally, participants may be eligible for further advancement through the Clinical and 
Leadership Pathway Program (C&L), which supports continued professional growth. 

Participants also benefit from: 

1. Career pathway guidance to help plan their long-term professional goals

2. A certificate of completion recognizing their achievements

3. Ongoing support from mentors and navigators throughout the program

Program Partners

The HSCS Program is made possible through the support and collaboration of: 

• Open Sky Community Services 

• Seven Hills Foundation

• African Community Education

• Southeast Asian Coalition of Central Massachusetts 

• MassHire and Commonwealth Corporation

How to Apply

To apply, simply complete the online form using the link below: 

Complete an enrollment form

We welcome passionate individuals looking to make a difference in their communities through a career in human services! 

What Success Looks Like in the Program

To help participants succeed and remain motivated, here is a clear picture of what success looks like in the HSCS Program: 

• Active Participation: Engaging fully in classroom learning, discussions, and group activities. 

• Professionalism: Arriving on time, communicating respectfully, and following through on tasks 

• Skill Growth: Developing and demonstrating essential skills, communication, teamwork, cultural awareness, and technical competencies. 

• Hands-on Learning: Fully participating in job rotations and applying classroom knowledge in real-life settings. 

• Utilizing Support: Proactively using wraparound supports and asking for help when needed 

• Networking & Feedback: Building relationships with staff, peers, and mentors, and responding to feedback for continuous improvement. 

• Capstone Completion: Successfully completing and presenting a final project that demonstrates understanding and readiness for employment. 

• Job Placement Readiness: Graduating the program with confidence, a polished resume, job search tools, and a clear career direction. 

By the end of the 13 weeks, successful participants will leave with: 

1. Real work experience 
2. A professional support network. 
3. A clear pathway to full-time employment 
4. A certificate that boosts their resume 
5. And the confidence to thrive in the human services workforce