Maya Ryan is a graduate of California State University, Sacramento, with a bachelor’s in History and a master’s degree in Public History. She is a former small business owner, and we are thrilled to welcome her return as a California Foster Youth Initiative AmeriCorps Member.
Maya was born in Israel and moved to the United States in 1982, moving throughout the Bay Area and the Los Angeles area for many years. Maya became independent at age 17 and, ultimately, raised her daughter as a single mother.
Maya draws upon her own healing journey to empathetically connect with others. She is especially passionate about helping teens and young adults find their inner strength and success. This drew her to our program. She was part of Cohort 6 Mentor Training. After successful completion, she was even more invested in our mission and, after an exciting conversation, she was invited to apply for the AmeriCorps position. She became a welcomed addition to the team in December 2023 and renewed her contract in August 2024!
Within her AmeriCorps role, Maya is the Youth Mentor for Aging UP. This involves building rapport and providing hands-on adulting support to the older teens and young adults in our program. She works side-by-side with our youth, assisting them in creating resumes, looking for jobs and securing resources or supportive services throughout the community. She was even recognized as The Child Abuse Prevention Center‘s AmeriCorps Member of the Month in June 2024!
When not working, Maya enjoys movement through Pilates and walking. She also finds joy in baking and cooking for her family. We love having her gentle demeanor and hard work as part of our team!
