United Way of the Mohawk Valley names Caracas to CEO role

He helped establish one of the first Health Homes serving children networks in the Mohawk Valley as part of CNYHHN Inc., advanced a racial and ethnic-diversity initiative for minority youth while at Integrated Community Alternatives Network (ICAN), and operationalized one of the state’s first Raise the Age programs.

Caracas most recently served as director of residential and juvenile justice services at The House of the Good Shepherd, according to his LinkedIn profile.

“During the COVID pandemic, when around-the-clock care and supervision of juveniles was required, I found creative ways to build a resilient culture for our staff and clients,” Caracas said. “I am excited to take my innovative problem-solving mindset to United Way MV to continue to support this staff, our non-profit network, and the people we serve in this community.”

“The board of directors and myself welcome Matt and look forward to his contributions,” Matthew Nicholl, president of the United Way of the Mohawk Valley’s board of directors  said in a press release. “During the interview process, Matt’s qualifications to lead this organization and his immense passion for the Mohawk Valley community shined. Matt comes ready with great ideas and energy to keep moving United Way MV and our community forward.”

A West Utica resident, Caracas spent his childhood years in New Hartford and Rome, graduating from Rome Free Academy. He received an associate degree in criminal justice from Mohawk Valley Community College and bachelor’s degree in sociology from SUNY Polytechnic Institute.