VERO BEACH, Fla. – July 7, 2026 – Thrive is pleased to announce the appointment of James L. Field, Stephen Pelletier, and Dr. Gerald Pierone Jr. to its Board of Directors. These respected community leaders bring exceptional expertise in healthcare, business, philanthropy, and nonprofit governance that will strengthen Thrive’s leadership and support its continued growth throughout Indian River County.
Their collective experience will also be invaluable in advancing Thrive’s mission while helping the agency remain responsive to the evolving needs of the community. Together with the current Board of Directors, these esteemed new board members will help guide Thrive as it deepens its impact addressing some of the county’s most pressing behavioral health challenges including housing and recovery needs.
James L. Field
James L. Field is an accomplished healthcare executive, strategist, and publisher. He currently serves as owner and publisher of LIV VERO Magazine and previously held executive leadership positions with The Advisory Board Company and Optum, where he advised healthcare organizations nationwide. His background also includes nonprofit board service and decades of experience in business strategy, healthcare analytics, and organizational leadership.
Stephen Pelletier
Following his retirement as Chief Operating Officer of Prudential, Stephen Pelletier has dedicated his time to philanthropy and nonprofit leadership, focusing on individuals experiencing addiction, homelessness, and disabilities. He currently serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees for Perkins School for the Blind and is also a board member of Camp Haven and The Wilson House, organizations committed to serving vulnerable populations.
Dr. Gerald Pierone Jr.
Dr. Pierone is the founder and Chief Medical Officer of Whole Family Health Center and The Pierone Research Institute. A board-certified specialist in Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, he has provided medical care to the Vero Beach community since 1990 and has been a leader in advancing healthcare, research, and patient outcomes throughout the Treasure Coast.
“As we welcome Jim, Steve, and Gerald to the Board, we are also deeply grateful for the continued dedication of our current directors,” said Carrie Lester, Chief Executive Officer of Thrive. “Their collective experience, leadership, and commitment to our community has positioned Thrive for an exciting future as we work to open a Centralized Intake & Respite Center that will significantly expand access to critical behavioral health, housing, and recovery services for those who need them most.”
Board Chair Nancy Lynch added, “Our Board is united by a shared commitment to improving the lives of our neighbors. The addition of these outstanding leaders strengthens our ability to advance Thrive’s mission and serve Indian River County with compassion, innovation, and accountability.”
Thrive also extends its sincere appreciation to its current Board of Directors for generously investing their time, expertise, and passion in advancing the organization’s mission. Together, they are helping build a stronger, healthier future for the individuals and families Thrive serves throughout Indian River County.
About Thrive
Thrive IRC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and empowering the residents of Indian River County by providing resources, prevention strategies, and recovery services that addresses substance misuse and behavioral health. Through extensive collaboration with community partners, Thrive works to create coordinated, person-centered solutions that strengthen the community by promoting long-term wellness.
Additional Information
https://thrive-irc.org/
https://www.facebook.com/ThriveIRC/
