Lessons Learned: Resilience in the Face of Adversity

By Alison Votaw, Communications Volunteer

Maria Stevens believes that through adversity, we build strength. Her journey began long before she joined the American Red Cross as a Community Disaster Program Manager in 2023.

At just 8 years old, Maria and her family moved from their comfortable home in Mexico to Downey, California, as political refugees. They had to start anew with little support, and Maria witnessed her parents work tirelessly to provide for their family. Determined to succeed, she focused on her education, conquering the challenges that immigrant families often face.

“It was humbling to come from Mexico to the US, where we had nothing.”

At 14, inspired by her parents’ relentless work ethic, Maria took her first job as a lifeguard. This decision marked her introduction to the American Red Cross, where she earned her swim instructor certification—a connection that would later return when her own children grew older.

“The hardships taught me resiliency.” 

With her understanding of resiliency, Maria dedicated herself to helping others at a mental health organization before she found her way to the Red Cross.

“I learned to see people for who they are, and not for the mistakes they made.”

After 11 years working in mental health, her daughter approached her with an interest in being a lifeguard. Maria knew the perfect place to start.

Soon after, Maria applied for the Community Disaster Program Manager position, and within 7 months, she was promoted to her current position as Community Disaster Risk Reduction Coordinator serving Tulare County.

Maria is deeply committed to supporting and equipping Tulare County through the Community Adaptation Program. This initiative connects with local non-profits, focusing on preparing smaller or rural communities for potential challenges, ensuring they are ready for any disaster.

Soon after her hiring, Maria faced her first disaster during the devastating flooding in Tulare County. Her dedication shone as she worked tirelessly. This experience sparked her passion for disaster work, resulting in two additional deployments.

Maria knows this job was meant for her. Many communities have a difficult time trusting outsiders, but Maria is proud that she has been able to break down barriers between herself and those in rural communities. As a bilingual individual, she can easily communicate with Spanish speakers, and through her childhood experience, she understands their initial hesitation. Maria’s also been working on breaking down the language barrier for languages she does not speak by purchasing a translation device.

“Disasters do not discriminate on race, gender, or social status; anybody can be affected by something.”

During Maria’s deployment to Hurricane Milton, she took on the role of disaster assessment. What she witnessed stuck with her. In one neighborhood on the side of a white house, was written out in red paint, ‘Surrender Dorothy.’ Maria witnessed how the neighborhood continued to persevere even through the devastating effects of Milton.

“Even when there are challenges, get up and shake it off.”

Maria has faced each of life’s challenges with the same resiliency she learned from her parents all those years ago. Maria is an excellent example of the unwavering dedication Red Cross staff and volunteers have in keeping our communities safe and prepared.

This Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s celebrate Maria’s story and the legacy she continues to build, a legacy rooted in compassion, connection and service.