From Office Space to Oasis: Revive Recovery Transforms Second Street Property into Women's Transitional Home
- John Moscillo
- Jul 23
- 4 min read
Manchester, NH — A building once filled with legal briefs and conference calls is preparing to welcome something very different: peace, safety, and a path toward healing.
In a powerful real estate transition led by mission and heart, Revive Recovery has acquired a longstanding professional building on Second Street in Manchester, transforming it into a women-only, trauma-informed transitional recovery home. The initiative is being hailed as a major step forward for underserved women in early recovery, thanks in large part to support from New Hampshire Housing, as well as the determination of local leaders, real estate professionals, and Revive's own community-centered team.
🌿 A Legacy Finds New Roots
The building was formerly owned by 633 Second Street, LLC, with AnnMarie Van De Water serving as a member of the LLC. Her husband operated a law practice from the property and managed the building for more than 35 years. While it was a place of business for decades, the space also carries deep personal meaning for the Van De Water family.
“We planted the landscaping ourselves. Everything—from the Japanese maple to the magnolia—grew up alongside our children,” said Van De Water. “This building was a part of our family.”
When Revive Recovery expressed interest in purchasing the property, it quickly became clear that the mission aligned with her vision for the building’s future.
“My partner and I weren’t in a rush to sell,” she said. “But when I learned what this home would mean for women in recovery, I knew it was meant to be theirs.”
🔮 An Intuitive Yes
The property listing was shared with Revive by Amanda Bradford, a buyer’s agent with the Hannah Zone Team at ReMax Synergy, who had a hunch it could be the right fit.
“I just asked Amy, ‘Is this in the cards for 2025?’” Bradford recalled. “She lit up, and I could tell right away this was something special.”
Amy Cloutier, Co-Founder and Chair of the Board at Revive Recovery, remembers the moment clearly.
“My entire body lit up with goosebumps. We weren’t even actively looking to buy—but I knew this was it. This building had been waiting for us.”
What followed was a months-long journey of approvals, financing, and coordination to bring the vision to life
💬 “Women Deserve Safety and Support”
Revive’s new facility will be handicap-accessible and designed to offer a safe, affirming space for women transitioning out of treatment. It will include peer-led support, trauma-informed programs, and holistic healing options—everything aligned with Revive’s community-centered philosophy.
“There is a massive gap in recovery housing for women,” said Cloutier. “Many of them are survivors of abuse, incarceration, or generational trauma. This home says: You belong. You are safe here. You can rebuild.”
🤝 A Community Transaction, Not Just a Sale
The listing was handled by John Moscillo, ReMax Synergy agent, advocate for socially conscious housing projects and believer of second chances.
“This wasn’t a quick deal. There were planning and zoning hearings, fire department inspections, and grant deadlines. But we all believed in the mission,” said Moscillo. “Everyone was willing to make time and stay focused.”
Together, he and Bradford coordinated with both parties to keep momentum strong and communication open.
“Amy’s passion and clarity of purpose kept us moving,” Bradford added. “We all knew we were helping make something transformational happen.”
🏗️ Powered by New Hampshire Housing
A critical element in making the purchase possible was grant funding from New Hampshire Housing, whose investment helped bridge the financial gap.
“New Hampshire Housing didn’t just fund a building—they invested in lives,” said Cloutier. “Their support was the difference between an idea and a reality.”
Financing was further supported by Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union, along with guidance from city officials and vendors who understood the greater purpose behind the project.
🙌 The Leader Behind the Curtain
Throughout the process, one person worked behind the scenes day and night: Jessica Carter, Executive Director of Revive Recovery.
“Jess was the engine,” said Cloutier. “She managed every detail—coordinating between the credit union, New Hampshire Housing, the City of Manchester, and everyone else involved. She was available at all hours. This wouldn’t have happened without her.”
Her leadership ensured that no detail was missed, no communication delayed, and no opportunity lost. Her persistence turned a vision into reality.
🏠 A Home That Will Change Lives
Founded in 2017, Revive Recovery Resource Center has become a vital part of the Greater Manchester recovery ecosystem—offering no-cost, peer-led services to individuals from all backgrounds. The addition of a residential recovery home marks a significant expansion of their mission.
“This house isn’t just a place to sleep,” said Cloutier. “It’s a place to feel safe, to heal, and to begin again.”
As Second Street prepares to welcome its newest residents, a simple truth echoes through every corner: Recovery is possible. And it is worthy of investment.
To support or learn more about Revive Recovery, visit:
Explore NH Life is produced by John Moscillo of ReMax Synergy. With over 20 years serving the New Hampshire Real Estate market you can rest assured that all your real estate needs will be exceeded. Simply email him at JohnM@NHSynergy.com call or text at 603-858-3548.
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