SHREWSBURY—Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. was recognized for his work on addiction and recovery last week when Veterans Inc. presented him with its Behavioral Health Spirit of Service Award.
The award was given during the nonprofit’s 4th Annual Recovery Summit, held at Independence Hall in Shrewsbury. Veterans Inc. cited Early’s leadership in expanding diversion programs and improving access to treatment, which the group said has strengthened recovery-oriented systems of care across the county.
“I am deeply honored to receive the Behavioral Health Spirit of Service Award from Veterans Inc. Veterans Inc. is a leader on so many issues in Worcester County,” Early said in the announcement. “This recognition reflects the hard work of all the hard workers in our office and also our many treatment providers, veterans’ advocates, community leaders, and the citizens who believe that recovery, compassion, empathy, and justice can go hand in hand. Together, we’re proving that early intervention and strong support networks can change lives and strengthen public safety.”
Veterans Inc. is the largest provider of support services to veterans and their families in New England. Its annual award highlights individuals who show exceptional commitment to behavioral health initiatives, especially those supporting veterans and people affected by mental health and substance use challenges.
Lt. Col. Vincent J. Perrone, USAF (Ret.), president and CEO of Veterans Inc., said in the announcement that recovery goes beyond clinical treatment. “Recovery is not just about treating addiction, it is about restoring lives,” he said. “At Independence Hall, we surround veterans and their families with the clinical services they need, while also connecting them to housing, employment, and support programs that ensure long-term stability. The Recovery Summit is our opportunity to convene the best minds in the field so that together, we can advance the future of recovery care.”
Early’s office highlighted several initiatives tied to the recognition, including the Central Mass. Opioid Task Force — now known as the Prevention and Support Network — which he formed in 2015, as well as the Critical Incident Management Systems software launched in 2020 to help police track overdoses and connect survivors with treatment. In 2021, his office also established the Worcester County Drug Endangered Children’s Alliance, supported by federal funding to expand Handle With Care programs in local schools.
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