Maria Elena Torres

Maria Elena Torres was born in Ventura California, but raised in Oakland. She is the oldest out of four siblings. She was raised with strong values emphasizing the importance of hard work, resilience, and respect. Right after high school she embarked on what has been her most empowering journey. Pursuing a higher education as an undergrad at San Francisco State University was felt like a privilege. She graduated this past May 2017 with a Bachelors of Art in Child and Adolescent Development, and a minor in Criminal Justice.

Throughout her educational Journey she had the opportunity to volunteer for various organizations working in Oakland and in San Francisco. She volunteered with Girls Inc. of Alameda, Jumpstart working with preschool children in San Francisco’s Mission District, and she interned in The Juvenile Justice Center working with youth in the Community Probation Department.

All of these great opportunities made her realize her love towards her community and working alongside youth and their families. As an LPS alumni, she is thrilled and joyful to have the opportunity to come back as part of the staff and work in her community.