NovaRivera came to me after years of observations both in communities and in academia. Communities felt slighted and used. rResearchers bound by institutions and large grants felt incessecant pressure to fulfill grant requirements, sometimes amplifying the disjunct between the two communities.

As someone who came to academia with an unconventional background (and a history of doing harm reduction outreach), the experience of both sides gave me the opportunity to better understand both messages, lost in translation. I also understood that hiring research staff is a costly (and sometimes lengthy) process that many organizations can not afford.

After some brainstorming, the thought came to me

“Why don’t I just offer what all those years of trainings has taught me- a la carte?”. Organizations get transparent understandings and results without hiring research staff? They get what they need for the purpose they need- and its sustainable”

And so NovaRivera was born- an intermediate solution to provide consulting to programs while also not working under the heat of an external funder- who may or may not have goals that align with the organization(s) serving as community members.

I look forward to seeing if I can fit your needs!