María Arteaga-Beltrán, M.S., has over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, with a focus on youth development organizations. Since joining A World Fit for Kids! in December 2020, she has overseen fiscal and administrative operations as well as human resources, collaborating with executive and program teams to ensure organizational success.

Maria’s dedication to empowering communities is reflected in her academic and professional achievements. She earned a B.A. in Sociology and Black Studies from UC Santa Barbara and an M.S. in Human Services and Nonprofit Management. Before joining AWFFK, she supported Best Start communities, worked with adults on Skid Row, and developed programs for underrepresented youth.

An alumna of the National Institute for Out-of-School Time Fellowship and a SHRM member, Maria has a credential in Family Development. Her life’s work centers on ensuring that communities of color, disengaged youth, and families know their voices matter and can create meaningful change.