At Sierra Community House, we’re honored to work alongside incredible individuals who bring their expertise, passion, and dedication to our mission. Today, we’re excited to introduce Brian A Gonsalves, a valued supporter and advocate for our community. As a skilled attorney at Gonsalves & Co, he brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to making a difference. Join us as we get to know more about his journey and why he believes in the work we do at Sierra Community House.
Can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to a career in law?
I’m from Illinois originally. After finishing my undergrad at University of Illinois, I had a few different jobs and traveled some. I spent a summer lifeguarding on the ocean on the North Shore of Oahu in Hawaii. I spent a season waiting tables and skiing at Alta and Snowbird in Utah. I spent some time lifeguarding and teaching skiing in Tahoe. I eventually settled into a good job in small business finance in Tahoe City. The company boomed and then busted, and when it went out of business, I went back to school. My brother was a lawyer, and it was something that always interested me. I was accepted into the University of Hawaii Law School, and off we went onto the next phase of things.
What type of work or projects inspire you the most?
Variety is the spice of life. I have my law practice, and my real estate brokerage which manages commercial properties in Truckee. I’m a JAG in the Army National Guard, and I’m involved with the legal assistance program through Sierra Community House. I’m also a husband and father. The projects that inspire me are the ones that allow me to live a full life while making a positive impact on the people and places around me.
Why do you believe the work Sierra Community House does is important for the community?
We are all so lucky to live in this wonderful mountain eutopia, but paradise isn’t perfect. From domestic violence and sexual assault to child abuse and suicide, from housing challenges to food insecurity, Sierra Community House is important because it provides support and resources for the often-unspoken issues that can get pushed below the surface in a good-time town.
In what ways do you work with Sierra Community House?
I am the managing attorney for the legal program, but it’s the legal team working directly with clients every day that does the vast majority of the work. They’re the ones making a real difference for real people. I just help where I can.
Are there any specific programs or initiatives that resonate with you personally?
The legal program, of course! I’m particularly interested in landlord-tenant matters. I can still remember what its like to eke out a living and struggle to pay rent in a tourist town. I also think the prevention program in schools is awesome. Bright futures and good decisions start with good role models.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what do you think you’d be doing?
I don’t know. Maybe a teacher, or a park ranger, or at a ski resort in the winters and at a kids summer camp during the summers, or maybe still trying to figure out a way to live the dream in Tahoe.
It’s clear that Brian Gonsalves is not only an accomplished professional but also a compassionate advocate for our community. We’re grateful for his support and the expertise he brings to Sierra Community House. Thank you, Brian, for sharing your story with us! Stay tuned by subscribing to our newsletter for more spotlights on the amazing individuals who help make our mission possible.
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