MAAC is selected as a 2025 California Nonprofit of the Year by Senator Steve Padilla
Chula Vista, CA — May 21, 2025 — MAAC is proud to announce its selection as a 2025 California Nonprofit of the Year by Senator Steve Padilla representing California’s 18th Senate District. MAAC is among more than one hundred nonprofits statewide recognized by their state senators and assemblymembers for making outstanding contributions to their communities
“It’s an incredible honor to be recognized as a California Nonprofit of the Year,” said Arnulfo Manriquez, MAAC President & CEO. “This recognition belongs to our staff, partners, and community members who work every day to uplift one another and ensure every individual has the opportunity to succeed.”
“MAAC has played a vital role in strengthening our communities for decades,” said Senator Steve Padilla. “Their work uplifts families, builds economic opportunity, and creates lasting change across our region.”

Since 1965, MAAC has been a cornerstone nonprofit in San Diego County, dedicated to advancing opportunity by maximizing self-sufficiency through high-quality programs and advocacy. Through five key pathways: Education, Health & Well-being, Housing, Economic Development, and Advocacy & Leadership, MAAC delivers services to more than 100,000 individuals each year. From early childhood education and affordable housing to workforce training and civic engagement, MAAC empowers individuals and families to thrive.
“We are grateful for the work of MAAC and want to extend our congratulations for this well-deserved recognition,” said Geoff Green, CEO of the California Association of Nonprofits (CalNonprofits), the sponsor for this initiative. “Nonprofits provide critical services, advocate for our most vulnerable neighbors, and enrich the lives of all Californians. From the childcare program to the soccer team, from the art class to the health clinic, and from the community organizer to the animal shelter, nonprofits make our communities stronger.”
MAAC’s 2024 accomplishments reflect its wide-reaching impact across San Diego County. The organization helped community members secure over $2.1 million in tax refunds through its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program (VITA) and distributed more than $550,000 in incentives and rebates through its Electric Vehicle Access program. Through its workforce development and apprenticeship initiatives, MAAC supported 251 individuals in gaining career-building skills. In housing, the organization maintained 1,291 affordable homes in its portfolio and is advancing six projects in development to add 894 new homes. MAAC’s Child Development Program served 1,218 children, while 57% of Colibrí MX Scholarship recipients were first-generation college students. In the area of health and well-being, all participants in MAAC’s recovery homes successfully secured housing upon completion of the program, and 1,118 individuals completed DUI education services.