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.

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.

Previously, 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.

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 wealthy clients, managing risk and ensuring accountability. This background gives me a strong understanding of budgets, oversight, and responsible decision-making — skills I believe are essential in public service.

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.

From early education to healthy aging, I believe leaders must show up with compassion and courage. 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. That’s why I’m committed to listening, investing in staffing, and caring for people at every stage of 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 gathering center to build community in any project. 

Our communities thrive when we protect our schools, honor our elders, and build systems that look out for the whole community. 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.