Getting to Know The River Center: Nisa

As seen in the Monadnock Ledger Transcript column, A View from the River by Odette Butler (May 27, 2025)

​I was so relieved and excited to receive compliments from the community on last month’s column, where we highlighted Kelli Tourgee, The River Center’s Home Visitor/Parent Educator. Your feedback reassured me that we’re on the right track—celebrating our incredible staff and showing that our programs are led by some of the most caring, knowledgeable, and dedicated people you’ll ever meet.

This month, I’m thrilled to highlight Nisa Simila, our Communications and Money Matters Manager. Nisa has a long history with The River Center and brings deep commitment and heart to everything she does. 

During tax season, Nisa coordinates a team of highly qualified, compassionate volunteers who assist families with tax preparation through the VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) Program. She takes this responsibility seriously, knowing how vital it is that each return is accurate and thorough, so families and individuals receive the refunds they’re entitled to. Her team goes above and beyond, using every tool available to ensure the best outcomes for those they serve.

Nisa’s connection to The River Center is both personal and profound. In her own words:

“Over 20 years ago, I was a mom of a 2-year-old. Other than my child and my husband, I had no family nearby. I had just quit my full-time job as a speech-language pathologist because I didn’t want to miss out on those early years of childhood. I had no tribe, no village, no safety net. I felt alone and was struggling with the emotional aftermath of my daughter being born very prematurely—and grieving the recent loss of a baby boy.

I questioned everything: my decision to quit work, my choice to become a mom—everything. Then I heard about this amazing group where kids could play, and parents could talk about parenting, world events, nothing was off limits. I joined the Parent-Child Connections program at what was then the Family Center.

For the first time, I didn’t feel so alone. My daughter was safe and cared for, and I finally felt like I belonged.

After my second daughter was born, I was invited to join the children’s program staff. I continued attending and supporting programs through the transition to The River Center. Eventually, I took a break, and when I returned in 2017, I stepped into a communications role that allowed me to use my creativity and professional background. That role later expanded to include the Money Matters program.

Coming back in 2017 felt like coming home. While the faces may have changed, the heart of the organization remains the same—and so does my sense of purpose.

Success, to me, is hearing another family say The River Center feels like family to them too. That’s when I know we’re making a difference—not just in individual lives but in the community as a whole. And that fills my cup.”

When asked what kind of support from the community is most helpful for The River Center, Nisa shared:

“Money is always important to help the organization continue its work in the community. Without funding to pay staff (program facilitators and support staff) and funding to help support our families, we simply can’t operate. But just as important is spreading the word about who we are and what we offer to families.

Through volunteers in our VITA program, I see firsthand the impact we make—whether it’s saving someone money with free tax prep or offering a sense of relief that their taxes are finally done. Our tax volunteers are a special kind of people who selflessly give their time from January to April each year because they believe in this program and the benefits it brings to the community.”

Nisa’s story is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do. She is both a product and a champion of The River Center’s mission—and we are truly grateful to have her on our team.

Author

Odette Butler serves as executive director of The River Center Family and Community Resource Center. She can be reached at  (603) 924-6800