Beginning July 1, 2022, Sonja Allen Mari took the helm of the Friends of Guest House, after serving as the organization’s Director of Operations for four years. In that role, she led the organization’s daily operations, including back office management, staff relations, strategic planning, and financial administration.
“As I take on this new role, my focus and Friends of Guest House’s focus will continue to be on increasing the number of formerly incarcerated women who successfully reenter their communities. Our efforts will continue to address the key areas that influence their path to successful reentry (housing, employment, education, healthcare, and family/community reconnection) with the goal of ultimately reducing the incidence of recidivism amongst women re-entering in Virginia.” – Sonja Allen Mari
Previously, Sonja spent more than 24 years in other operations and upper-level management positions, not to mention that she is also a licensed attorney. Sonja’s former legal practice largely catered to indigent and under-represented populations while working closely with such charitable organizations as the Maryland Volunteer Lawyer Services, the Maryland Homeless Representation Project, and the Maryland Disability Law Center to serve the most vulnerable communities.
As Executive Director, she oversees the organization’s outreach and administrative duties. She is most motivated knowing that Guest House is in the business of “second chances” and is inspired by the personal growth and achievement of its clients. Education: B.A., Sociology, and B.A., Government, University of Virginia; J.D., Howard University School of Law.