Power in Community: 60 Years of Dreams Taking Flight

This year on July 8th, MAAC celebrated its 60th anniversary, marking six decades of service, impact, and resilience. To honor this milestone, we brought together community partners, staff, and board members for a series of discussions called Power in Community: 60 Years of Dreams Taking Flight. Together, we reflected on our shared history, reviewed the four priorities of our new strategic plan, and looked ahead to the future we will continue to build side by side. 

At both our South Bay and North County gatherings, leaders past and present shared stories about the journey that brought us here. The conversations acknowledged how much has changed since MAAC's founding in 1965 when President Lyndon B. Johnson signed legislation prohibiting employment discrimination and communities across the nation were demanding equal access to housing and opportunity. While some of those struggles remain today, one thing has not changed: MAAC's role as a trusted partner and advocate. 

"MAAC doesn't step back, we step forward. We don't see obstacles, we see opportunities. We don't divide, we unite," said Arnulfo Manriquez, MAAC President & CEO. These gatherings also included special recognition from our local leaders. National City Mayor Ron Morrison presented a proclamation declaring July 8th as MAAC Day, describing MAAC's work as building "bridges" for people to cross the most difficult chapters of their lives. Vista Councilmember Jeff Fox and Assistant City Manager Imelda M. Huerta also honored MAAC with a proclamation, underscoring the organization's impact across the region. 

Looking Ahead: The Next 60 Years 

Both discussions were led by MAAC Board members: Alethea Arguilez, Executive Director of First 5 San Diego, and Dr. Patricia Prado-Olmos, MAAC Board Vice Chair and Chief Community Engagement Officer at CSU San Marcos. They each reviewed the following four priorities from MAAC's strategic plan. 

  • Foregrounding economic mobility outcomes
  • Creating sustainability through diversification
  • Leading transformation through influence
  • Centering employee wellbeing

Guests were then invited to share their ideas and feedback through interactive poster boards placed around the room, each highlighting a specific strategy to drive these priorities forward. Using sticky notes, participants reflected on how their voices, networks, and expertise could help shape MAAC's next chapter. 

One reminder echoed throughout the conversations: community is not just a place or an organization. It is people, relationships, and trust. For 60 years, MAAC has built that trust, and with the support of our partners and neighbors, we will continue to strengthen opportunities for generations to come. Be part of the next chapter of MAAC’s story. With your support, we can continue building pathways to brighter futures.