Get to Know
Gilbert Frieden
I have deep Massachusetts roots and a lifelong love for the North Shore, with a career grounded in service, community engagement, and practical problem-solving. For years, I have worked side by side with older adults, families, volunteers, and local organizations throughout Gloucester, Rockport, Essex, and Manchester-by-the-Sea.
Our communities thrive when we protect our schools, honor our elders, and build systems that look out for the whole community.
Serving Our Seniors
Much of my recent work has focused on supporting seniors. I am a certified Bar Method instructor teaching at multiple Councils on Aging across the North Shore, where I design safe, low-impact fitness programs that help older adults build strength, improve balance, and stay independent.
I recently completed my term as vice president on the Board of the Friends of the Essex Council on Aging, where I helped raise funds, support staff, run board meetings, and create new programs that bring people together, including a popular weekly game day.
Meals on Wheels & Money Management
I managed the money management program at SeniorCare Inc. in Gloucester, matching older adults with trained volunteers to help organize finances and ensure bills were paid on time.
Before and throughout COVID, I delivered Meals on Wheels in Manchester-by-the-Sea, Essex, and West Gloucester, performing wellness checks, training new drivers, and bringing both food and connection to neighbors who needed it most.
Professional & Financial Background
In addition to my nonprofit and volunteer work, I bring extensive professional experience in investments, client service, and management. At Deutsche Bank and City National Bank, I worked with clients managing risk and ensuring accountability.
This background gives me a strong understanding of budgets, oversight, and responsible decision-making — skills essential in public service.
Rooted in the Waterfront Economy
Like many of my neighbors, I'm part of the waterfront economy, working in a family-run business that reflects the clamming culture and hospitality that define our charming coast.
I understand what it means to run a small business, depend on the health of our waters, and be part of a community that lives and works on the North Shore. Not just visits it.
A Family Rooted in Public Service
My mom was a teacher, and I've seen firsthand how the right support can help a child learn to read and change the course of their life.
My dad was the planning director in Plymouth when I was born, and his last job was working for the state Department of Housing and Community Development. Dinner conversation at my house was often creative construction, planning safety, and making sure there was a gathering center to build community in any project.
Why I'm Running
From early education to healthy aging, I believe leaders must show up with compassion and courage. I will work collaboratively, thoughtfully, and with my whole heart to strengthen our towns, support our youth and seniors, and make decisions that reflect the values we share across the North Shore.
I'm not a career politician. I'm a neighbor, and I will govern like one.
"I will work collaboratively, thoughtfully, and with my whole heart to strengthen our towns, support our youth and seniors, and make decisions that reflect the values we share across the North Shore."
Who Is Gil?
North Shore Native
Deep Massachusetts roots. Lifelong connection to Gloucester, Rockport, Essex, and Manchester-by-the-Sea. This is home, not a campaign stop.
Champion for Seniors
Certified fitness instructor at Councils on Aging. Former vice president, Friends of Essex Council on Aging. Meals on Wheels volunteer throughout COVID.
Fiscal Accountability
Professional background in investments and risk management at Deutsche Bank and City National Bank. Understands budgets and responsible oversight.
Housing in the Family
Father served as a town planning director and later with the state Department of Housing and Community Development. Housing policy is in Gil's DNA.
Education Runs Deep
Son of a teacher. Committed to investing in schools and staffing, because the right support at the right time can change the course of a child's life.
Part of the Coast Economy
Works in a family-run waterfront business. Understands the clamming culture, small business pressures, and what it takes to thrive on the North Shore.
Ready to Help?
The best campaigns are built by the community they represent. Knock a door, make a call, or chip in. Every action counts.