Maria Hernandez is a senior-level nonprofit executive who has successfully designed and administered human service programs and clinical interventions in the areas of health, behavioral health, education, prosperity, homelessness, and emergency services within organizations in New York and Florida. Recognized as an industry thought leader for the background of expertise within the field, Hernandez has consistently executed community initiatives, built community partnerships, and formulated comprehensive programs that demonstrate positive change through evidence-based interventions. Hernandez is well respected among her peers for her expertise in the operation of human services businesses. She has excelled in leading collaborative efforts, developing and executing community initiatives, building community partnerships, and administering millions of dollars in private and public grants. She is known for her visionary leadership, inspiring teams to reach beyond their limits and for her relentless pursuit of innovation. Hernandez joined United Way of Broward County in June 2013 as the Vice President of Program Operations. In 2017, she took on the role of Chief Program Officer with primary accountability for the operations of the Community Impact Department, Commission on Substance Abuse, and Mission United. She also oversees United Way public policy and emergency response efforts for natural disasters. In addition, Hernandez is a Board Member of the Homeless Coordinating Council of Broward, the Funders Together to End Homelessness National Network, the Broward County Early Learning Coalition, Memorial Health System DEI Advisory Council and the vice-chair of Broward Health, Health Point. She is also the co-chair of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance Housing Committee and a member of the Florida Philanthropic Network. Previously, she served as a board member for the Florida Association for Infant Mental Health, The State of Florida Special Need Coalition, and the Healthy Start Coalition of Broward County. She is a proud resident of Pembroke Pines, where she lives with her two college-age children, and in her free time, she can be found taking a fun family trip in an exotic country and on a shore reading a good book.
