Maria Morena Barbery is my full name (I don’t use Maria because all my sisters have “Maria” as a first name—sometimes confusing).

 

I grew up in a very small town in El Salvador—about 100 families, one convenience store, one church, one jail.  Everyone knew everyone and it literally took a village to raise children there. Children could run and play freely outdoors without fear of abduction, getting run over, getting lost, etc.  We had a great time growing up with very good parents who put our well-being first.

 

I came to US in 1981.  My brothers sent for us to get our out of harms’ way during the civil war. My father decided he was too old to come and I never did see or talk to him again.  I still miss him very much; I was his little girl. My first winter here, I was shocked because I have never been cold before.  I did not know it could get so cold and icy and that I would have to wear a coat to stay warm—shocking. I also thought everyone would be friendly and courteous--also another shock.

 

A few months after arriving in the United States, we were enrolled in school.  After graduating from Lincoln Junior High and MCIP, I started working at Catholic University as a secretary. I enjoyed the learning environment and the people were great to work with.  After two years of saving my money, I decided to resign and start University of Maryland to pursue a degree in what? I did not know what field to study.  After two years, I had to withdraw and go back to work as my funds had ran out.  I made the best of this by seeking out jobs where I could learn and develop my skills while getting paid at the same time.  I worked for eight years in property management and found that I liked working with the public and being able to help residents and customers with whatever issues they were facing—rodent issues, filling vacancies, keeping track of records, coordinating contractor work, etc.

 

Then, I became interested in real estate and worked in that field as an agent and administrator for six years.  The field was exciting and fast-moving, just the combination I enjoy.  My husband decided to start his own business and went to work with him in 2006. Working with a spouse is truly challenging but we made it work for a couple of years.  

 

In 2008 I decided to return to property management.  I missed the energizing work and being part of a team.  I ended up working at Heritage Park Apartments for 6 ½ months.  Again I was able to make improvements to the property—reducing complaints, vacancy rates, etc.  I resigned when I realized it was not a good fit for me.  Finally I came across an ad for Jubilee and said to myself “this sounds like the perfect place for me.”  So I sent my resume with a cover letter and hoped for the best.  I did sense that I was a good fit for Jubilee, but then I lacked the tax credit experience, which might exclude me from consideration.  Still I kept praying for God to bless me with the gig and now here I am, working with people I like.  I can only hope for a successful and lasting relationship. So glad to be onboard!

 

WHAT I ENJOY: 

Walking my 2 very spoiled dogs (Pembrooke Welsh Corgis)

Spending time with my husband and with family

Reading biographies or self-help books

Helping others