KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) In a notable shift at Monadnock Peer Support (MPS), Cheshire County Sheriff Eli Rivera has been appointed interim executive director following the recent departure of Stephen Tavella, the organization’s previous leader.

The transition comes at a pivotal time for MPS, which is currently managing a major construction and renovation project. Rivera, who had been serving as chair of the nonprofit’s board of directors, was selected to step into the leadership role in order to maintain continuity, according to a release from the organization.

Founded in 1995, Monadnock Peer Support offers a range of free mental health services, including more than 30 weekly support groups, hot meals, respite stays, and community activities. The nonprofit positions itself as a complement to traditional mental health care by emphasizing peer-led recovery and support.

With longstanding involvement in MPS, Rivera is seen by the board as uniquely equipped to take the reins while a broader search for a permanent executive director gets underway. The organization cited his existing knowledge of key initiatives and his leadership background as decisive factors in the appointment.

In a statement, Rivera expressed gratitude for the board’s trust and reaffirmed his commitment to the mission of MPS. “I am humbled that the Board has the confidence in me to take on the role of Interim Executive Director and lead the organization while the Board focuses on searching for a new Executive Director for MPS,” he said.

Balancing dual responsibilities as Sheriff and interim director will require some adjustments, Rivera acknowledged, but added that his dedication to the organization made the decision an easy one. “I will just have to start my days earlier, and get home a little later for dinner, with some late evenings and weekends,” he said. “I am very enthusiastic and passionate about MPS; I believe in its mission and its service to the community.”