“We must give our time to help others.”

Maria De La Cruz’s Path to Leadership

Maria De La Cruz’s journey with Sacred Heart Community Service began in 2006, when she was searching for an affordable preschool. After being turned away from several programs, she was introduced to Sacred Heart. Enrolling her child in the preschool program proved to be transformative, providing not only academic preparation but also joy, community, and lasting memories.

As her children grew, Maria became increasingly involved with Sacred Heart. She began attending English classes, sharing what she learned with her extended family, and encouraging others to seek the same opportunities. For Maria, the preschool became more than a place for her children’s education; it opened doors for her own growth and confidence.

When her youngest was born in 2011, Maria returned to Sacred Heart, often commuting more than an hour by bus with her children to attend programs. Despite the challenges, she remained committed. She joined workshops, including one on domestic violence, and steadily grew into a community leader.

Although she initially hesitated to step into leadership as a community advocate known as a “promotora”, Maria stayed connected as a participant in food distributions, Pack-a-Back, and holiday programs. Over time, with encouragement from staff, she gained the skills and courage to volunteer in multiple activities, supporting other families in the process.

The pandemic disrupted her involvement for a time, but Maria returned with even greater determination. By 2022, she became a promotora with the Safe, Secure, and Loved program, volunteered with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, and served as a community resource navigator. By 2025, she was co-facilitating wellness courses and representing Sacred Heart at community events, taking on roles that allowed her to give back while continuing to grow.