MARITES MACLEAN: President and CEO; and Founding Board Member
ESTEFANIA GERMAN: Treasurer
BETH ROBBINS: Secretary
Marites MacLean is a retired early childhood educator, trauma-informed care trainer, and lifelong advocate for children and families. With a Bachelor of Science Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Fitchburg State University and a Certificate in Advocacy and Leadership from Urban College of Boston, Massachusetts, Marites has dedicated her life to fostering equitable systems and supporting children and families, including those with disabilities.
Marites’ commitment to advocacy is evident through her active participation in various community organizations. She volunteers her time attending meetings with groups such as the Health Equity of North Central MA (CHNA9), where she advocates for the rights and needs of children and families. Her efforts extend to promoting and supporting equitable systems, and she played a key role in the promotion of the Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) and the Fair Share Amendment (millionaire’s tax) bills, both of which became laws in Massachusetts.
From 2015 to 2021, Marites served on the advisory council for the Department of Early Education and Care, contributing her expertise and insights to shape early education policies. As a Teach Plus and CAYL fellow, she has developed a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the early childhood education sector.
Marites is the President and co-Founder of Empower Children for Success (ECFS), a nonprofit organization based in Fitchburg. In addition to her leadership role, she serves as the Development Director, grant writer, and Program Director, among other roles, to ensure the organization’s success. Her efforts in building and maintaining relationships with donors have been instrumental in securing funding to advance ECFS’s mission.
Under her leadership, Marites secured grant funding from the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston for the Leaders for Equitable Local Economies initiative, aimed at creating an equitable childcare system. She also spearheaded the creation of a successful Childcare Entrepreneur Training Program, securing additional funding from the United Way of North Central MA, Community Foundation of North Central MA, CHNA9, and the Greater Worcester Community Foundation.
Marites’ extensive network of advocates in the early education and care field underscores her unwavering commitment to systemic change. Her advocacy work and leadership have made a significant impact on the lives of children and families in North Central Massachusetts, ensuring they have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
