its executive team in ensuring vital services for some of Boston’s most vulnerable individuals. Reporting to the President and CEO, the Vice President of Programs and Services will oversee the organization’s core program areas and help ensure the continued delivery of high-impact, person-centered services.
Leading a team of program directors responsible for more than 100 staff, the Vice President drives the quality and integration of services across SFH’s program areas In partnership with executive colleagues, this key role helps ensure that services remain coordinated, effective, and responsive to the complex needs of the individuals SFH serves.
Mission
St. Francis House rebuilds lives by providing refuge and pathways to stability for adults experiencing homelessness and poverty – with a commitment to helping those it serves achieve renewed lives of dignity and self-determination.
About SFH
St Francis House is the Commonwealth’s largest day shelter for adults experiencing homelessness and poverty, serving up to 600 individuals each day, year-round, across two downtown Boston locations For more than four decades, the organization has provided comprehensive services designed to support individuals experiencing homelessness on their path toward stability and independence.
The organization recently completed a $74 million comprehensive campaign supporting expanded programming and major facility improvements, including the full renovation of its flagship site at 39 Boylston Street. These investments have strengthened SFH’s ability to deliver services in a welcoming, traumainformed environment
Driven by a growth mindset and a deep commitment to collaboration, SFH is also helping address Boston’s housing crisis through new initiatives and partnerships. Expanding its downtown campus, it is co-developing and will serve as the service provider for a nearby 19-story residential tower that will provide 126 units of affordable housing, including 70 units for individuals transitioning out of homelessness.
A Legacy of Growth and Innovation
Founded 42 years ago in downtown Boston, St. Francis House has grown from a simple breadline into a nationally recognized provider of comprehensive services for adults experiencing homelessness and poverty.
Under the leadership of President and CEO
Karen LaFrazia, the organization has experienced transformational growth, expanding its programs, facilities, and housing initiatives while advancing innovative approaches to recovery, employment, and long-term housing stability
During her 29-year tenure, LaFrazia has championed multiple comprehensive campaigns to expand services, strengthen infrastructure, and increase access to housing.
Throughout its history, SFH has launched pioneering programs to address the intersecting challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness, including specialized services for women, recovery support services, and integrated behavioral health initiatives
Today, the organization continues to build on this legacy through a comprehensive service model that supports individuals from crisis to stability, recovery, and housing.
This spirit of innovation is also reflected in the environments where services are delivered. For example, St. Francis House recently completed a comprehensive renovation of its Daytime Services Center at 39 Boylston Street.
Using a trauma informed design and incorporating input from staff and guests, the renovated space reflects the organization’s person-centered philosophy of care Flexible layouts, choice-based services, and welcoming spaces enhance the guest experience
Karen Lafrazia President and CEO
Karen LaFrazia has guided St. Francis House through nearly three decades of transformational growth, expanding programs, facilities, and housing initiatives while advancing innovative approaches to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness.
Organizational Culture and Core Values
St. Francis House is grounded in a culture of mutual respect, adaptability, and service. Staff across the organization share a commitment to meeting guests with dignity while supporting pathways to stability, recovery, and independence.
This culture is reflected in the organization’s coordinated approach to service delivery. Staff work across program areas to ensure guests receive the resources needed to reclaim their dignity and rebuild their lives
Organizational Chart
VP, PROGRAMS & SERVICES
VP, PROGRAM STRATEGY & INITIATIVES
Rigidity is unacceptable. Instead, a service mindset, attention to detail, and teamwork are essential traits at all levels of the organization.
A deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion informs both the workplace culture and the delivery of services. From the Board of Directors to front-line staff, SFH believes that diversity of background, experience, and perspective strengthens the organization and enhances its ability to serve the community
PRESIDENT & CEO
VP, FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION
VP, OPERATIONS, CULTURE & INCLUSION
VP, PHILANTHROPY & EXTERNAL AFFAIRS FACILITIES
Partnerships and Funding
SFH delivers holistic, person-centered care through strong public and private partnerships Federal, state, and local contracts support essential services across shelter, recovery, behavioral health, workforce development, and housing initiatives.
Government funding accounts for approximately 52% of the organization’s $20 million operating budget, with philanthropy representing roughly 45%. Philanthropy also supports program innovation, facility improvements, and service expansion.
SFH’s collaborative approach also extends to housing development partnerships, including its work with the Planning Office for Urban Affairs, a nonprofit developer of affordable and mixed-income housing across Greater Boston
Together, these partnerships enable SFH to deliver integrated supportive services, expand housing access, and strengthen pathways to stability for the individuals it serves.
“Every day I witness firsthand the harsh realities of Boston’s housing crisis. The surge in homelessness in our region is a consequence of multiple compounding factors, including soaring rents and a severe shortage of affordable housing. St. Francis House is pleased to help alleviate this strain as a partner in providing much-needed affordable housing in downtown Boston.”
- Karen LaFrazia SFH President & CEO
Programs and Services Overview
At the center of St. Francis House’s mission is a comprehensive approach to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty SFH’s programs span housing, behavioral health, workforce development, recovery services, and day shelter operations, forming the core of the organization’s work.
Led by the Vice President of Programs and Services, the Programs and Services management team comprises directors, associate directors, and managers responsible for ensuring high-quality, responsive services across these program areas. Programs and Services staff represent approximately 80 percent of SFH’s workforce
As the organization’s largest operational division, the department includes more than 100 staff and an annual operating budget of approximately $12 5 million, supported through a combination of government contracts, philanthropic funding, and other revenue sources. The organizational chart below illustrates the leadership structure responsible for guiding this work.
Organizational Chart
Programs and Services
Through a multidisciplinary structure, St Francis House delivers a coordinated continuum of services designed to support individuals from crisis toward stability, recovery, employment, and housing The following programs reflect the breadth of this work and the organization’s commitment to meeting individuals where they are while supporting long-term pathways out of homelessness
Day Shelter Services
SFH Day Shelter Services provide comprehensive case management in addition to essential daily support for guests, including nutritious meals served year-round, a safe daytime refuge, and access to clothing through the Fresh Threads program. Guests also have access to showers, toiletries, secure mail services, and identification support that enables access to employment and financial services
Housing Navigation
SFH works closely with the City of Bos and other partners to connect individu with affordable housing options. The organization owns and manages more 150 units of supportive housing and as individuals in navigating the complex process of securing stable housing in t community. Housing stabilization case managers provide individualized suppo to help residents maintain long-term housing success
Workforce Development
SFH’s Workforce Development programs help guests build pathways to income and longterm stability through career planning, job readiness training, and individualized employment coaching. Programs are designed to align with each participant’s goals and integrate with housing and behavioral health supports.
Behavioral Health
SFH’s Behavioral Health Services include access to licensed mental health clinicians who provide triage, clinical treatment, and crisis intervention. The Seeds of Change Day Treatment program supports guests navigating substance use disorders and mental health challenges, while the Carolyn Connors Women’s Center offers a safe and welcoming refuge and clinical supports for women who have experienced trauma
Recovery Support Center
The Room to Grow Recovery Center offers peer-based recovery support in a safe, nonjudgmental environment for individuals at all stages of recovery.
Medical Clinic
The Marie L. Arky Medical Clinic, operated by Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP), provides on-site primary, preventative, episodic, and behavioral health services for guests. Staffed by physicians, physician assistants, RNs, nurse practitioners, and behavioral health clinicians, the clinic also provides referrals for vision and dental care
Vice President of Programs and Services POSITION DESCRIPTION
The Vice President of Programs and Services (VPPS) will possess a deep commitment to serving people experiencing homelessness The successful candidate will hold an unwavering belief that all people should be treated with respect and dignity, and that given the right resources at the right time, can change the trajectory of their lives. With strong supervisory experience, the VPPS will set the tone for this dynamic division, reinforcing a collaborative, guest-centered, recovery-oriented, and trauma-informed approach to service delivery. Working closely with executive leadership and program directors, the role will help strengthen programs while ensuring operational excellence across the portfolio.
The VPPS will embody and advance SFH’s philosophy of care, ensuring programs are integrated to deliver comprehensive, high-quality services across shelter operations, housing, behavioral health, and income stability/workforce development. Partnering with program leaders, the VPPS will utilize evidence-based practices and embrace the principles of harm reduction and housing first; and support ongoing learning and improvement while fostering collaboration across the broader program team In addition, the role will help advance the continued growth of housing, workforce, and behavioral health initiatives in collaboration with the Vice President of Program Strategy and Initiatives and other program leaders
As a member of the Executive Team and as a thought partner to the President and CEO, the VPPS will help strengthen SFH by supporting effective service delivery, fostering a supportive environment for staff, and advancing programmatic and financial sustainability. The VPPS supervises five direct reports and oversees more than 100 staff as the organization continues to strengthen and expand.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Executive Leadership
Serve on the Executive Leadership Team in collaboration with colleagues and the President and act as a liaison to the Board of Directors
Contribute program expertise to advance agency strategic priorities Provide insight and leadership to support a healthy mission-aligned organizational culture
Demonstrate commitment to the overall wellbeing of the agency by considering both shortand long-term implications of decisions
Contribute to establishing financial sustainability goals and carrying them forward in practice
Program Leadership
Hold overall operational responsibility for all program areas. Ensure programs and services are integrated within a holistic delivery model aligned with the agency ’ s philosophy of care, theory of change, and strategic priorities.
Ensure the effectiveness of programs and services through the establishment of outcomes metrics and quality assurance standards.
Promote practices that support staff wellness across the department, recognizing the intensity of the work and the importance of emotional wellbeing
Advance organizational commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion as they relate to both staff experience and guest services
Guide departmental budget development and management in alignment with agency-wide financial sustainability goals Partner with Human Resources and Program Directors on recruitment, onboarding, professional development, and evaluation processes for staff
Serve as a leadership liaison to the SFH Board Program Committee and act as the agency ’ s Compliance Officer, ensuring applicable HIPAA requirements are met.
New Program Development
Partner with staff to identify unmet or emerging needs within the guest population and pursue opportunities to deepen impact through responsive programs and services. Collaborate with the President and VP of Program Strategy and Initiatives to develop and implement new or expanded program opportunities. Support funding strategies that advance program growth
Learning and Evaluation
Oversee the development and use of evaluation systems, data platforms, and reporting processes that monitor service delivery and program effectiveness.
Promote a culture of learning and continuous improvement aligned with outcome measurement and quality improvement across the division.
Identify best practices and emerging trends relevant to serving individuals experiencing homelessness and integrate those insights into SFH programs and services
External Representation
Represent St. Francis House in Continuum of Care leadership convenings. Partner with the Development team to support fundraising efforts, including program content for proposals and engagement with donors.
Represent SFH within local and state human service associations that monitor government policy and funding.
EXPECTATIONS
Short-term Priorities (First 12-18 Months)
Build Trust and Visible Leadership
Establish a strong and visible leadership presence across St. Francis House programs. Build trusted relationships with Program and Services’ management and staff, and executive colleagues while reinforcing a collaborative, guest-centered culture.
Re-Center and Stabilize Program Operations
Assess the current program structure, workflows, and leadership alignment across day shelter operations, housing, behavioral health, and workforce programs. Strengthen coordination across these areas to ensure services function as an integrated continuum.
Strengthen Leadership Alignment and Accountability
Provide clear expectations and consistent follow-through with program leaders. Support them in strengthening team management, communication, and accountability across the department.
Advance Clinical and Program Integration
Bring a strong clinical and systems perspective to the Program Leadership Team, helping align service philosophy, trauma-informed care practices, and behavioral health approaches across programs
Support Organizational Readiness for Growth
Partner with the President & CEO and Executive Team to ensure programs are positioned to support the organization’s next phase of growth, as determined through strategic planning initiatives.
Longer-term Priorities:
Strengthen the Integrated Service Model
Continue to deepen coordination across programs and services so guests experience a cohesive continuum of care.
Build Systems and Organizational Discipline
Strengthen internal systems that support program accountability, including clearer decisionmaking pathways, documented practices, and consistent expectations across program teams
Elevate Data, Outcomes, and Learning
Advance the use of data and evaluation to inform strategy, measure outcomes, and support continuous learning and improvement across programs
Support Strategic Growth and Program Expansion
Play a key role in shaping the next phase of SFH’s program strategy and the development of services that respond to emerging community needs.
Develop Leadership Capacity Across the Division
Continue strengthening the leadership capacity of directors and managers, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and professional growth.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
The successful candidate will bring a combination of strategic leadership, operational expertise, and a deep commitment to serving individuals experiencing homelessness. The role calls for a leader who can guide multidisciplinary teams, strengthen programs, and foster a culture of collaboration, learning, and accountability across the Programs and Services division.
Candidates Will Demonstrate:
Multidisciplinary program leadership experience in human services settings, ideally serving individuals experiencing homelessness
Advanced degree/LICSW and 10+ years of senior leadership experience, with strong capabilities in team leadership, budgeting, and program planning, implementation, and quality improvement
Clinical insight to understand the complex physical and emotional needs of guests when developing and evaluating programs
Systems perspective with strong analytical and critical thinking skills and the ability to navigate situations that require balancing multiple priorities and perspectives.
Experience leading organizational growth and change, supported by clear communication, transparency, and strong alignment across teams.
Experience leveraging program evaluation and data to support learning, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Sensitivity to the needs of highly vulnerable populations, modeling compassion, respect, and dignity in service delivery.
People-centered leadership, supporting staff development, mentoring team members, and fostering opportunities for professional growth.
Strong listening and problem-solving skills, with the ability to approach challenges with a fresh perspective and help teams view change as an opportunity for greater impact
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to represent St Francis House effectively with internal and external stakeholders, including partners and funders
Flexibility, initiative, and follow-through in dynamic and fast-paced environments
Optimism, resilience, and a sense of humor, bringing a “can-do” approach to leadership
Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and experience applying an equity lens in program design, implementation, and evaluation.
As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, St. Francis House is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce where all staff can reach their fullest potential SFH welcomes candidates with lived experience and those who have faced historic barriers to competitive employment – in particular, BIPOC, people who are multilingual or multi-cultural, and members of the LGBTQ+ community
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