As a member of the Maine Women's Conference Board, I assist in the planning and production of our annual conference which centers on women's growth, empowerment, and community engagement.
Within just an 8 year time span of living in Portland, I have become deeply invested in the Portland community through a variety of leadership and volunteer roles that have fueled my passion for advocacy and public service. I have gained valuable, crucial insight into Portland's strengths, challenges, and opportunities. These experiences are what ultimately inspired my commitment to my community and led to my mission to run for City Council At-Large, where I hope to continue to help create meaningful, lasting change for the city I am proud to call home.
I currently serve on the Board of Directors for PROPEL, the young professionals organization within the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce, where I help organize networking and professional development opportunities while supporting and promoting the work of local nonprofits and small businesses.
About Maria
As a volunteer advocate with the Sexual Assault Response Services of Southern Maine (SARSSM), I provide confidential support and resources to survivors of sexual violence through its 24/7 helpline, as well as assist with development initiatives and events that bring awareness and attention to this organization.
I am a 2023 graduate of Leadership Portland, a year-long leadership development program that brings together emerging leaders from across Greater Portland's business, nonprofit, and civic sectors to strengthen collaboration and community leadership.
I am a proud member of the Junior League of Portland, a women’s volunteer organization, where I have had the opportunity to take on leadership roles focused on marketing, membership, and volunteer engagement. Through my membership, I have volunteered with local organizations such as Preble Street, The Opportunity Alliance, and Maine Needs. I am also an active participant with the Center for Grieving Children—an organization the League helped bring to life —through my involvement on its fundraising committee and participation in initiatives that serve to further their mission to provide hope and healing to children and families experiencing loss.
These opportunities have collectively reinforced my commitment to civic engagement and have given me the confidence and readiness to become more involved in shaping the future of our city. Having had the privilege of connecting with a number of leaders, volunteers, and community members across a diverse range of organizations, businesses, and industries, I have gained a deeper understanding of how interconnected each sector is to Portland’s overall success and function. Through these experiences and more, I have developed/ continue to develop a well-rounded perspective that I hope will allow me to serve the community thoughtfully and effectively as a local official.