Organization Spotlight: Youth Alliance

YA seeks to empower youth as leaders who contribute to the social and economic betterment of their community.

 
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About Maria Cid

As a born and raised Californian, Maria believes that personal attention, education, and transparency are at the forefront of customer service values. She is community-driven and feels honored to protect her community’s neighbors. With 24 years of insurance expertise, Maria is qualified to provide you with a straightforward and personalized plan to help you select the most comprehensive, cost-effective solution for your needs. Maria offers exceptional service for both the English and Spanish-speaking community while upholding the knowledge and experience to help you better understand your coverage options.

Outside of her professional career, Maria is a wine enthusiast that dedicates her free time to studying oenology (the study of wine) and its many intricacies. She has a deep appreciation for wine culture and has even partnered with renowned vintner Gustavo Brambila from Gustavo Wines. However, Maria not only shares a passion for wine and winemaking, but she also has a heart for racing and motorcycles. A motorcycle rider herself, she owns a Triumph 800 Tiger motorcycle and has participated in many race track events throughout the United Stations. Some of her most unforgettable memories are participating in the Laguna Seca Raceway and Cota of the Americas alongside actors like John Hensley, Keanu Reeves, Taylor Kinney, and renowned motorcycle riders like Melissa Paris, Jason Aguilar, Damian Jigalov, Edgar Pons, Lukas Tulovic, and Rocco Landers.

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Community Service

Maria loves giving back to her community in any way she can. She enjoys coordinating fundraisers for local nonprofits and has sponsored a variety of organizations on her own. She was the Assistant Director for SCRAMP at Laguna Seca Raceway for 15 years. She is also an advocate for Love 146 & the March of Dimes. Maria is an Ambassador for the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce and an active member of the community. Maria has been instrumental in bringing critical funds to her community, surrounding communities, and the organizations she has been affiliated with.

Most recently, she serves as a Board Member for Youth Alliance, a nonprofit dedicated to enriching the lives of youth and families throughout San Benito and South County. Furthermore, she is a supporter of the Edward Boss Prado Foundation and Cecilia’s Closet whose sole Mission is to provide food and assistance to challenged youth and families throughout South County with dignity. Maria was just named President of the Board of Directors for the Poppy Jasper International Film Festival Inc. (PJIFF) where she will be coordinating pop-up movie nights alongside CEO and Director Mattie Scariot. Moreover, she was a founding committee member for the #GILROYSTRONG. movement dedicated to raising money, awareness, and healing for the victims and families of the Gilroy Garlic Festival Tragedy.

Maria is a true change maker and inspiration to her community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Maria has sponsored lunches for first responders (fire fighters, police officers, nurses, doctors, and scientists) as they work arduously to save lives every day. Maria also participates in the #FarmersCares and Suits for Soldiers program. The #FarmersCares program ensures clients are well served and taken care of by providing them with gift certificates, warm meals, and resources. The Suits for Soldiers program collects new or gently used professional attire for soldiers who served in the military and are looking to transition into the workforce.

Featured Organizations

Youth Alliance

Youth Alliance is a nonprofit serving San Benito and South County that seeks to empower youth as leaders who contribute to the social and economic betterment of their community. Check them out below.

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Edward Boss Prado Foundation

The mission of the Edward Boss Prado Foundation is to work with a relentless passion to empower people who are in need of resources that foster dignity and respect.

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Poppy Jasper International Film Festival

The Poppy Jasper International Film Festival is an annual event produced by volunteers as part of Poppy Jasper, Inc. that supports independent films.

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All In Monterey

All In Monterey focuses on helping others and making the most effective and positive change in the community.

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Culinary Academy

Kneaded Culinary Academy at Rebekah’s Children’s Service prepares youth, ages 15-25, for a career in the hospitality industry.

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Achievements and Honors

During her career, Maria has proudly received many awards that serve as a true testament to her tireless efforts and dedication to our community. Her outstanding philanthropy, leadership and volunteerism has impacted every single client, family, and organization she has been involved with.

Some of Maria’s most noteworthy Honors

(1) National Philanthropy Day Award, San Benito County

(2) National Philanthropy Day Award, Morgan Hill

(3) Certificate of Recognition, Assembly Member Robert Rivas, 30th District

(4) Certificate of Recognition, Supervisor Mike Wasserman, Santa Clara County

(5) Certificate of Recognition for 2019 Outstanding Philanthropist, Youth Alliance

(6) Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition, Zoe Lofgren

(7) Volunteer of the year 2020, Gilroy Chamber of Commerce

(8) People To Watch 2021, GMH Today Magazine