Spaces of Opportunity is excited to welcome its new Executive Director, Maria Valenzuela. Spaces of Opportunity is a collaboration of Desert Botanical Garden, TigerMountain Foundation, Unlimited Potential, Orchard Community Learning Center and Roosevelt Elementary School District to provide sustainable, fresh produce and farming opportunities to south Phoenix.
Valenzuela comes to Spaces after serving as Chief Program Officer for a global health nonprofit organization where she led initiatives that expanded food access, co-authored curricula and implemented preventative health education and empowered under resourced communities from the Ande Mountains in Peru to our very own mountains in South Phoenix. With background in nonprofit professional and community development, Maria has over 30 years of experience driving mission-driven work across Maricopa County.
As Director of Spaces of Opportunity, Valenzuela is tasked with overseeing the 19-acre community farm in South Phoenix and continue to lead its impact to the surrounding area.
Read our exclusive Q&A with Valenzuela below on what she is most excited about in this new role and what her top priorities are.
Q: What inspired you to take on the role of director at Spaces of Opportunity, and what excites you most about this position?
A: I was inspired to take on the role because, having grown up in this community, I deeply understand the importance of accessible spaces that foster growth, collaboration and opportunity. The values of inclusivity, community empowerment and sustainable development are ones I’ve always carried with me, and I saw this role as the perfect way to align my personal experiences with my professional aspirations. Having lived and worked within this community, I know firsthand how transformative a well-designed, supportive environment can be for individuals and organizations looking to grow and make an impact.
What excites me most about this position is the opportunity to give back to the community that helped shape who I am and to help create spaces that nurture creativity, collaboration and opportunity for others. I’m passionate about ensuring that everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive, and I feel deeply connected to the mission of Spaces of Opportunity. Leading an initiative that aligns with my personal values and has the potential to make a meaningful difference for the people in this community is both inspiring and motivating.
Q: Spaces of Opportunity has become a vital resource for urban farming and community engagement. What are your top priorities for its future growth and impact?
I plan to assess and build relationships with employees, partners, farmers and community members. Listening to what is working, what can improve and what needs to change is crucial. I appreciate the work that everyone has contributed, and I’m eager to learn and be of assistance in the areas where I’m needed most urgently during the first three to six months
My long-term vision for Spaces of Opportunity is to create a safe and welcoming space where families from the Roosevelt School District, partnering organizations and community members can build lasting friendships and access vital support programs. I hope that our work will serve as a model for other communities—both across the country and beyond—demonstrating how collaboration and commitment can create thriving, sustainable spaces that can be replicated elsewhere.
My top priorities for its future growth and impact are:
- Expanding Educational Programs: Enhance workshops and classes on sustainable farming, nutrition and environmental stewardship to enable the community.
- Strengthening Community Partnerships: Build stronger relationships with Roosevelt School District, businesses, and organizations to create integrated and impactful programs.
- Increasing Accessibility: Improve access to our resources and programs for all community members, including under resource populations.
- Enhancing Sustainability Practices: Innovate and implement eco-friendly methods in our urban farming operations to serve as a model for sustainable agriculture.
- Fostering Community Engagement: Create more opportunities for community involvement through volunteer programs, events and collaborative projects.
- Growing the Board of Directors: Increase the board of directors with individuals from diverse backgrounds who can positively impact Spaces of Opportunity.
Q: How do you plan to strengthen partnerships with local farmers, schools and organizations to further the mission of Spaces of Opportunity?
To strengthen partnerships with local farmers, schools, and organizations, I plan to:
- Foster Open Communication: Establish regular meetings and open channels of communication to ensure all partners are aligned with our mission and goals. This will help us understand their needs and how we can support each other effectively.
- Collaborate on Projects: Develop joint initiatives and projects that leverage the strengths of each partner. For example, working with staff and farmers to create educational programs for schools, or collaborating with organizations on community events.
- Provide Resources and Support: Offer resources, training, and support to our partners to help them succeed. This includes providing access to our facilities, sharing best practices, and offering technical assistance.
- Celebrate Successes: Recognize and celebrate the achievements of our partners. This can be through public acknowledgments, awards, or community events that highlight their contributions.
- Expand the Network: Actively seek out new partnerships with diverse groups to broaden our impact. This includes reaching out to underrepresented communities and organizations that share our values.
Q: What challenges do you see in expanding access to fresh, locally grown food in underserved communities, and how do you plan to address them?
Expanding access to fresh, locally grown food in underserved communities comes with several challenges, including affordability, infrastructure, education and systemic barriers. Many families face financial constraints that make fresh food seem less accessible than processed options. Additionally, a lack of grocery stores, transportation and land for gardening can limit access. There is also a need for greater awareness and education on nutrition, gardening and food sovereignty.
To address these challenges, I believe in a multi-faceted approach. Strengthening partnerships with local organizations can help subsidize costs and provide food at reduced prices. Developing more community gardens and urban farms in accessible locations can bring fresh produce closer to families. Education programs in schools and community centers can empower residents with the skills to grow and prepare their own food. Lastly, advocating for policies that support urban agriculture, food justice, and equitable resource distribution is key to creating long-term, sustainable change.
Q: How can community members get more involved, whether through volunteering, gardening or supporting the market?
A: Community members can get involved in several meaningful ways, whether through volunteering, gardening, supporting the market or contributing financially.
Volunteering: Help maintain community gardens, assist with educational workshops, support food distribution efforts or lend a hand at events that promote food access and sustainability.
Gardening: Rent a plot at the community garden, participate in gardening workshops or mentor others in growing their own food to help cultivate fresh produce for families in need.
Supporting the Market: Shop at the farmers’ market, spread the word and encourage others to buy locally grown food. Businesses and organizations can also partner with the market to provide resources or sponsorships.
Monetary Donations: Financial contributions help sustain and expand programs, improve infrastructure and provide resources for families facing food insecurity. Donations allow Spaces of Opportunity to continue its mission of making fresh, locally grown food accessible to all.
Every effort—big or small—helps create a healthier, more connected, and food-secure community.
Photo: Kevina Devereaux, Senior Director, Social Responsibility & Impact, Ken Schutz, The Dr. William Huizingh Executive Director, Maria Valenzuela, Executive Director of Spaces of Opportunity.
The post Meet Spaces of Opportunity New Executive Director Maria Valenzuela appeared first on Desert Botanical Garden.
