PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Second Street Second Chances (2nd Street) announces the election of three members to its board of directors.

 

Gabriela Leon is an outreach coordinator and recovery coach at Berkshire Connections, specializing in supporting pregnant and postpartum women with a history of, or active, substance use disorder. A formerly incarcerated woman in recovery, Leon’s personal journey has fueled her passion for helping others transform their lives. In 2019, after serving as a recovery specialist at the local Clinical Stabilization Services unit, Leon enrolled in Berkshire Community College’s Human Services Transfer Program, continuing on to the advanced placement program at Elms College. She is scheduled to receive her bachelor’s degree in social work in May and plans earn a master’s degree. Leon’s mission is to advocate for those who feel voiceless, address social issues affecting vulnerable populations, and demonstrate that it is possible to overcome life’s challenges. An advocate for underserved women in the community, she is dedicated to bringing resources that empower these women to overcome challenges and thrive. Leon holds certificates in addiction and human services, an associate degree in human services, and is a state certified recovery coach.

 

Annie Maurer is a staff attorney in the Pittsfield office of Community Legal Aid, where she represents individuals facing criminal record–related barriers to housing and employment. Before joining Community Legal Aid, Maurer worked for more than a decade as a public defender. She was previously employed at the Committee for Public Counsel Services in Pittsfield, The Legal Aid Society in New York City, and the New Jersey Office of the Public Defender, where she managed a regional office of 25 lawyers. Maurer graduated from Tufts University and New York University School of Law. She serves on the board of Housatonic Youth Basketball (Housy Hoops) and lives in Great Barrington with her husband and two children.

 

Jason Vivori is a lifelong resident of Berkshire County with a passion for community service that began as a teenager when he volunteered weekly at St. Stephen’s Table addressing food insecurity. His commitment to community engagement has included numerous volunteer and professional endeavors. In 2003, Vivori joined the Berkshire Museum as a volunteer, eventually becoming an employee. He has served the museum in several professional roles; in 2016, he moved into his current position as collections manager. Vivori joined the Berkshire Stonewall Community Coalition board of directors in 2008, serving as vice president, president, and currently as chairperson of the organization. He also served on the Pittsfield 4th of July Parade Committee for several years. His future plans include exploring the intersection between art, local history, and social justice, with a focus on capturing and sharing the experiences of marginalized and underrepresented communities.