Kleckner J. Charles, DSW, MPA
Chief Program Officer
Dr. Kleckner J. Charles joined Innovative Resources for Independence (IRI) as Chief Program Officer in September 2026. He brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in healthcare, intellectual and developmental disabilities, behavioral health, and community-based human services. His work has focused on person-centered services, program quality, organizational accountability, workforce development, and meaningful outcomes for individuals and families.
Prior to joining IRI, Dr. Charles served as Chief Program Officer for the City of Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services. In this role, he provided executive leadership for a Medicaid-funded network of more than 300 provider organizations serving over 20,000 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and complex support needs. He previously served as Chief Operating Officer of The Arc Putnam New York, overseeing residential, day habilitation, and employment services.
Dr. Charles earned a Doctor of Social Work in Healthcare and Social Innovations from the University of Southern California, a Master of Public Administration in Health Administration and Long-Term Care from Long Island University, and a Bachelor of Arts in History from Stony Brook University. He also serves as Chair of the Board of Directors of the Lois Bronz Children’s Center. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family, watching TED Talks, and listening to NPR.