MEET THE FOUNDER & PRESIDENT
Hey, I'm Eustace!
Eustace Payne Jr. is a graduate of Framingham State University with a diverse background encompassing social work, law enforcement, community support, and church ministry. He began his career assisting families through challenging life circumstances before transitioning to law enforcement. After his time in the court system, Eustace founded the Massachusetts Community Outreach Initiative (MCOI) to assist individuals reintegrating into society. After past 15 years, Eustace and his wife, Teresa, have refocused MCOI's mission to address the pressing issue of bullying among school-age children. Inspired by Teresa's experiences and supported by research from StopBullying.gov, which indicates over 70% of children with culturally diverse background experience bullying, MCOI will now provide programs designed to foster acceptance and develop leadership skills. These initiatives aim to empower children to find their voices and thrive in a supportive environment. Additionally, Eustace has been actively involved in church ministry, further emphasizing his dedication to community service and personal development.
MEET THE CO-FOUNDER & PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Hey, I'm Teresa!
Teresa is an inspiring educator and compassionate leader whose career has spanned over three decades in high school classrooms and alternative education programs. A proud graduate of Brown University, she dedicated her professional life to shaping young minds through mathematics, instilling not only knowledge but confidence in her students.
Beyond the classroom, Teresa served as a devoted minister at her church, where she played a vital role in both spiritual guidance and community empowerment. Her deep commitment to her faith and community was evident in every aspect of her life.
Throughout her teaching career, Teresa witnessed the struggles of students who were bullied for their intelligence and individuality. Determined to support them beyond academics, she teamed up with her husband, leveraging his expertise to help these students develop strong boundaries and discover their voices. Together, they empowered young people to stand tall against adversity and embrace their unique strengths.
Teresa’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication—to education, to faith, and to the well-being of every child who needed a champion. Her work continues to inspire and uplift, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives.
OUR TEAM
Our volunteers and mentors demonstrate an incredible commitment to our children, going above and beyond to make a lasting impact. Their dedication shines through in the time they invest, offering guidance, support, and encouragement that helps shape young lives positively. It's inspiring to see how these mentors selflessly give of themselves, often becoming trusted role models and advocates for the children they serve. Their commitment not only enriches the lives of the children but also strengthens our community as a whole.