Maria's Service
Founded in 2021 by family and friends, the Maria Rodriguez Foundation recognizes a member of the Virgin Islands community who embodies Maria’s spirit of selfless service.
Contribute to Community
The foundation seeks to honor Maria by continuing her legacy of giving back to the community, in both big and little ways.
Instinct to Give
While Maria won awards for her service, such as the relief flying she did after the hurricanes of 2017, what made Maria extraordinary was the way she approached the day-in-day-out realities of life. Her instinct was to help, to give, to love, and to show up.
Recognize Service
The Grant
Each year Virgin Islanders will have the opportunity to nominate an individual that shows up for people the way Maria did – with a smile on their face and with nothing expected in return. Nominees will be evaluated based on the pillars of a giving spirit, selfless service, love for community, and choosing to find beauty in life. The nominee selected will be the recipient of the Maria Rodriguez (Van Heurck) Award and will receive a grant to be used in the community as they choose.
Find out more about Maria and her love of community at Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands
