Staff & Organizational Partners
The Somerville Foundation is led by Executive Director Sal Islam, with financial and operational support from Jim Verzino and our contracted partners at Creators Financial.
Sal Islam, Executive Director
Sal Islam graduated from Somerville High School and became involved with local organizations such as Groundwork Somerville and Teen Empowerment from a young age. He currently serves as the first Executive Director of The Somerville Foundation and previously served as Vice President of the Board when the organization operated as the Somerville Education Foundation.
Sal brings deep community roots and experience across municipal, state, and federal government. He helped lead the Foundation's evolution from an education-focused organization into Somerville's community foundation, expanding its role as a convener, funder, fiscal sponsor, and resource for local nonprofits and residents.
As Executive Director, Sal oversees the Foundation's strategy, partnerships, fundraising, and organizational development while working to strengthen the civic and nonprofit ecosystem throughout Somerville.
Jim Verzino, Chief Financial Officer
Jim Verzino serves as Chief Financial Officer of The Somerville Foundation and is the Founder and CEO of Creators Financial. He brings more than 15 years of experience supporting nonprofit organizations.
Through his work with Creators Financial, Jim helps oversee the Foundation's financial operations, reporting, budgeting, and fiscal sponsorship infrastructure, providing financial guidance that supports the organization's long-term sustainability.
Beyond his professional work, Jim is an active member of the Somerville Kiwanis Club and has served nonprofits through numerous board and finance committee roles. Jim also previously led a nonprofit business accelerator supporting socially responsible entrepreneurs, bringing a practical understanding of how mission-driven organizations can successfully scale their work.
Board of Directors
The Somerville Foundation’s Board of Directors brings together founders of the former Somerville Education Foundation, philanthropic professionals, grassroots and youth development leaders, public servants, and community advocates from across generations. All Directors have deep connections to Somerville and bring a range of experiences and perspectives to guide the Foundation’s continued growth and community impact.
Jenny Bonham-Carter
Director
Greg Nadeau
President
Greg Nadeau serves as President of The Somerville Foundation and has dedicated his career to improving educational and community opportunities for young people. A longtime Somerville resident and public education consultant, Greg brings experience in education data, learning systems, youth programming, and community-based initiatives.
Wilbert Pineda
Vice President
Julia Jones-Brown
Clerk
Wilbert Pineda serves as Vice President of The Somerville Foundation. A lifelong Somerville resident and graduate of Somerville Public Schools, Wilbert brings experience in public service, community engagement, food access, and political advocacy. He is committed to expanding access to resources and ensuring youth have a voice in local decisions.
Julia Jones-Brown serves as Clerk of The Somerville Foundation. A Teele Square resident, Julia works in philanthropy, helping foundations strengthen their grantmaking processes. She brings grantmaking and education experience to the Board and is especially interested in supporting education-based programs and building deeper connections across the Somerville community.
Marian Berkowitz is a co-founder of the Somerville Education Foundation and has remained involved throughout its evolution into The Somerville Foundation. She brings experience in education, public and environmental health, research, and community engagement. Marian also helps lead the Innovations in Education Grant Program, supporting fundraising and grants for creative educational projects across Somerville.
Raymond Estrella
Treasurer
Ray Estrella serves as Treasurer of The Somerville Foundation, bringing experience in finance, accounting, strategic planning, and organizational operations. He is Chief Financial Officer at Palmer Capital Corporation and has contributed his financial and governance expertise to the Massachusetts Alliance of Portuguese Speakers and the City of Somerville Urban Renewal Planning Committee.
Vladimir “Vlad” Benoit serves as President and CEO of the Somerville YMCA and brings experience in nonprofit leadership, operations, fundraising, financial planning, and investment management. A longtime Somerville community leader, Vlad is committed to strengthening inclusive services and expanding opportunities for local youth and families.
Marian Berkowitz
Director
Vladimir Benoit
Director
Jenny Bonham-Carter
Director
Jenny Bonham-Carter is a social worker, musician, educator, and community advocate who moved to Somerville from Sweden in 2016. Her work spans human rights, interfaith collaboration, social justice, and the arts. Jenny serves on the Somerville Human Rights Commission and the Board of Massachusetts Baptist Multicultural Ministries and is active with several local and statewide advocacy organizations.
Maddie Thoms is a Somerville native who brings experience in technology, finance, product management, operations, and philanthropy to the Board. She currently works at Teladoc Health and previously served as Vice President of Product Management at GivingData. Maddie is especially interested in connecting foundations, sharing effective practices, and strengthening philanthropic collaboration and impact across Somerville.
Maddie Thoms
Director