Comunidad’s Story
Where It All Began
Comunidad was created out of a desire to provide community leaders a platform to lead and thrive. The idea that would eventually become Comunidad was in development for over 15 years before our founder, Maralee, took the first steps to file our paperwork of incorporation. From the beginning, the goal has always been the same, reflected in our mission to equip and engage locally-rooted community leaders.
“I wanted to name this organization Comunidad because growing up, my mother and siblings and I benefited from the strength and support of our community. Our community was always there for us when we were in need and I want to provide others with that same support.”
Maralee Gutiérrez Cruz, Founder
Why Willston?
After an environmental scan and several listening sessions with residents of communities within Falls Church, we knew that Culmore or Seven Corners would be our first focus area. A chance meeting with the Director of the Willston Community Center, cemented the decision to start in Seven Corners, but we had one condition: connect us with people who are already leading in this community. She introduced us to three women who showed up every week for a ten-week leadership class. Committed is an understatement. Those women — those locally-rooted community leaders — helped staff and start our very first reading program in 2018.
What We Believe
As an organization, we believe in building the capacity of everyone in the community, from our youngest leaders to the most seasoned parents and grandparents. Our programming focuses on strengthening literacy skills to enhance reading among elementary-age students; after school youth mentoring to support students with working parents; and, adult leadership development to support confidence-building and community-led advocacy.
Our Team & Partners
Comunidad is governed by a Board of Directors, operated by a staff of six, and supported by volunteers and community members. We are funded through generous donations from and partnerships with friends, families, and local charities.
We’re grateful for partnerships with organizations such as Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services, the Willston Multicultural Center, and the Falls Church Rotary Club; and are grateful for community support from our faith partners, local business leaders who invest in our work, and local elementary school PTAs, parent liaisons, and social workers for their commitment to seeing the Willston community thrive.
We truly believe that if you harness the power and leadership of an individual, their community will thrive. Our hope is that through continued financial investment and volunteer dedication, we will replicate this people-first model of serving to expand and empower communities all over Northern Virginia.
