BY BRANDON CONDA, STORYTELLING INTERN
Words Alive is proud to highlight one of our team members, Maria Mariscal, whose incredible growth and dedication have been inspiring to watch. Maria started with us as a volunteer, then became a Family Literacy Instructor, and recently stepped into her new role as Program Coordinator.
Maria started her journey with Words Alive in 2021 as a volunteer working with HandsOn San Diego to pack Family Literacy Program kits. By assembling learning materials and supporting classroom sessions, Maria discovered her true passion for family literacy.
Maria graduated with her bachelor's degree in Communications and Entrepreneurship with a specialization in project management from UC San Diego in 2021. In her capacity as Program Coordinator, Maria utilizes her direct experience from our family literacy program to maintain the operational effectiveness of Words Alive’s literacy initiatives. Her role as a behind-the-scenes leader involves logistics management alongside fostering family engagement and building a motivated volunteer team.
Maria grew up in a Spanish-speaking household in Los Angeles and relates closely to the challenges of learning to read in English. She began helping her mom’s goddaughter with reading English and by doing this, she discovered a passion for supporting young learners and their families.
Although she did not consider herself an avid reader as a child, teaching others helped her find joy in reading, leading her to become an instructor.
Maria is currently reading Daniel Kahneman's Thinking, Fast and Slow because the book offers valuable insights into decision-making processes that complement her developing skills in project management.
When reflecting on her transition from volunteer to a Words Alive team member, Maria shares:
“As a volunteer, I did a little bit of everything in the Family Literacy Program — from curriculum writing to packing books. I was always involved, and I built strong connections with the families. Now, as a project coordinator, it’s not just about being a friendly face — it's about making sure all the logistics run smoothly, putting data into systems, and making sure everything is in place behind the scenes. I get to combine both the heart and the structure of the work.”
Maria wants to advance in her career by improving her project management abilities so she can establish a solid base in operational and coordination skills to maintain throughout her professional journey.
Outside of Words Alive, Maria enjoys hiking, visiting the beach, and enjoying moments with her dogs as well as friends and family.
Maria’s journey from volunteer to leader shows how dedication and passion can create meaningful change for herself and her community, and we’re proud to have her as a valued member of the Words Alive team!