Assemblywoman Blanca E. Rubio has named Maryvale leader Christina Moore the 2026 Advocacy Woman of the Year, recognizing nearly 15 years of service to children and families across the San Gabriel Valley.
The honor highlights Moore’s leadership at Maryvale, where she has helped expand programs supporting mental health, housing, and early education. The organization operates campuses in Rosemead, Duarte, and South El Monte.
From Classroom To Community Leadership
Moore joined Maryvale in 2012 and now serves as Chief Program Officer. She oversees programs that reach children, youth, and families facing economic and social challenges. Her responsibilities include early childhood education, behavioral health services, and housing support for mothers and children.
Colleagues say Moore combines an educator’s perspective with operational leadership. She holds master’s degrees in education and business administration, a background that shapes both program design and delivery.
“Her work strengthens systems of care while keeping children and families at the center of every decision,”reads the nomination submitted on her behalf.
Maryvale, founded in 1856 by the Daughters of Charity, is the oldest children’s charity in Los Angeles. The organization marked its 170th anniversary this year, making Moore’s recognition timely within its long history of service.
Advocacy Extends Beyond Maryvale Programs
Moore’s influence reaches beyond Maryvale through regional and statewide advocacy. She serves as Southern California regional chair and incoming statewide president of EveryChild California, where she helps guide policy affecting vulnerable children and families.
She also participates in the Los Angeles County child care planning process as a member of the local planning committee. In that role, she contributes to funding and access decisions that affect working families across the region.
Through her work with the Association of Community Human Services Agencies, Moore engages in policy discussions tied to funding and rate reform for human services providers.
These efforts often occur outside public view but shape whether programs remain available in communities like El Monte, South El Monte, and Baldwin Park.
Community Impact Seen In Local Partnerships
Local educators and service providers describe Moore as a collaborative leader who builds partnerships across sectors. She has worked with schools, health providers, and community organizations to coordinate care for families.
For many residents, Maryvale serves as a safety net during crisis. Programs include counseling, early education, and transitional housing, often delivered through coordinated local partnerships.
Maryvale President and CEO Steve Gunther said Moore’s leadership reflects both strategy and compassion.
“Christina exemplifies nonprofit leadership grounded in integrity, compassion, and strategic vision,” Gunther said. “Her dedication to children, youth, and families makes her the most deserving recipient of this honor.”
Rubio’s recognition reflects broader community awareness of Moore’s long-term impact. While advocacy work often happens behind the scenes, its effects are visible in expanded services and stronger support systems for families.
For San Gabriel Valley communities, the award highlights the value of long-term leadership in addressing housing, education, and mental health needs. Moore’s work continues to shape how those services reach families who rely on them most.
More information about programs and services is available at Maryvale’s official website, https://www.maryvale.org.
