Our History

A tradition of serving the community. MAAC was founded upon a vision to provide a place where local families in need could find the means to self-sufficiency.

Together, members from the San Diego Chapter of the GI Forum, Hermandad Mexicana, Laborer’s Local #89, Association of Mexican-American Educators, and the Council of Latin American Clubs, along with other leaders of San Diego’s Mexican American community turned their vision into reality and founded the Metropolitan Area Advisory Committee on Anti-Poverty.

Today, hunger and poverty continue to be crises in our communities. Demands of daily life and unexpected events can easily push families below the poverty level. And our nation’s current economic crisis has deeply affected even more families, creating a new face of poverty in our communities. For generations, MAAC has responded to these challenges by evolving its programs to meet the needs of the community. Our work is made possible by a number of factors: a strong commitment to those whom we serve, dedicated staff, compassionate volunteers, the creativity to deliver services matching needs in times of scarce resources, and donors who recognize the essential value of MAAC’s service to our community.

MAACie Thoughts
history with roger
The work of MAAC to strengthen the community is not easy. It is tireless, it is personal, and it evolves. The organization has grown tremendously over the years to meet increasing need. And it will continue to shape the lives of countless children and adults, so long as there is need.
Roger Cazares | MAAC Executive Director, 1970 - 2004