Tis the Season to be Thankful
Tis the Season to be Thankful
Robert Conley's upbringing in the 4 Corners area of Dorchester shaped his life in unexpected ways. Once labeled as a heroin kingpin by the federal government, he was accused of monopolizing the drug trade in the inner-city. This lifestyle of power and luxury led him to invest in real estate across multiple states. However, his reign came to an end when he and many others from his neighborhood were indicted on drug and conspiracy charges.
Spending a total of 21 years in federal prison over the last three and a half decades, Robert's perspective on life drastically changed. Upon his release in 2020, he joined Volunteers of America as an employee. Thanks to his completion of the "BACE" Black Addiction Counseling Education program, he obtained his LDAC degree, enabling him to make a positive impact in the field of addiction counseling.
Currently, Robert serves as a dedicated program manager for Volunteers of America, specifically overseeing a co-occurring men's program. In this role, he coordinates services for individuals facing substance use disorders, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and mental health challenges.
Motivated by a deep desire to make a difference, Robert strives to bridge the gap between entrepreneurship and social responsibility, advocating for those who have been neglected and overlooked by society – the very same people he once contributed to harming.
In addition to his role at Volunteers of America, Robert plays a significant role as a supervisor at the Woods Mullen Shelter for women, situated in the heart of Mass and Cass. By actively engaging in both programs, he exemplifies his commitment to helping those in need and creating a positive impact within his community.