Our Leadership Team

At Sauk Valley Voices of Recovery (SVVOR), our leadership team is united by a shared passion for empowering individuals and families on their recovery journeys. Comprised of experienced professionals and individuals with lived recovery experience, our team is dedicated to fostering hope, reducing stigma, and building strong recovery communities across Lee, Whiteside, DeKalb, and Ogle counties.

Together, we work to create innovative programs, expand access to resources, and advocate for meaningful change, ensuring that everyone in our community has the support they need to thrive in recovery.

Gerald Lott, Executive Director

Gerald Lott is a dedicated advocate and leader in the recovery community, proudly living in long-term recovery. As the Founder and Executive Director of Sauk Valley Voices of Recovery, Gerald has transformed his passion for helping others into a mission to empower individuals and families affected by substance use.

With a diverse background that includes careers in music, nightclubs, and sales and marketing, Gerald found his true calling in guiding others on their recovery journeys. He is recognized as a national thought leader in the recovery field, serving as a Shatterproof Ambassador and speaking at events nationwide to inspire hope and change.

Gerald also spearheads a multi-state sober living initiative, providing safe and supportive housing for those in recovery. He sits on several boards, contributing his expertise and vision to advance recovery advocacy and support.

Lauren Metzler, Chief Operations Officer & Peer Mentor

Lauren Metzler is the Chief Operations Officer at Sauk Valley Voices of Recovery, where she combines professional expertise with a deep commitment to supporting individuals on their recovery journeys. As a Peer Mentor, Lauren is dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health while empowering individuals to find hope and healing.

Her personal experiences with the impact of substance use disorder drive her passion for this work, and she is proud to lead the day-to-day operations of SVVOR. Lauren also plays a key role in enhancing program effectiveness and building meaningful community connections to expand the organization’s reach.

Outside of work, Lauren is a devoted mother to three daughters and an animal lover, caring for her dog, two cats, and a hamster.