Our Staff
Maria Garcia, Executive Director
Maria L. Garcia serves as Executive Director of the Laredo Stroke Support Group. With a background in public health and community outreach, she is passionate about connecting stroke survivors and their families with support, education, and a community that understands their journey.
Before joining the organization, Maria worked at another nonprofit, where she gained experience in health education programs, community events, and bringing local partners together to serve Laredo families. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Texas A&M International University and is currently pursuing an MBA in Healthcare Administration. She also serves her parish as a CCD Coordinator.
Maria is committed to growing the Laredo Stroke Support Group’s reach and helping more survivors and caregivers know they are not alone.
Cintya Medina, Program Coordinator
We’re proud to have Cintya Medina as part of the Laredo Stroke Support Group team. Since joining us as a volunteer in 2024, Cintya has brought dedication, kindness, and a heartfelt commitment to our survivors and their families, now serving as our Program Coordinator. She graduated from Texas A&M International University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Cintya coordinates weekly recreational activities, supports volunteers, and helps organize community events, outreach, and fundraising efforts.
At the heart of her work is creating a safe, welcoming space where stroke survivors and caregivers can build friendships, celebrate progress, and feel a sense of belonging. Her connection with the individuals and families she serves inspires her to nurture the sense of family that makes LSSG special. We’re grateful for the care and enthusiasm she brings to our community. Cintya aspires to pursue a career in medicine, specializing in obstetrics and gynecology (OB-GYN), carrying forward her passion for supporting others and advocating for their well-being.
Vivien Gonzalez, Program Outreach Aide
We’re proud to have Vivien Gonzalez as part of the Laredo Stroke Support Group team, serving as our Program Outreach Aide. Vivien is currently a junior at Texas A&M International University, where she is studying Kinesiology and Exercise Science. After volunteering with LSSG over the past year, Vivien has become an essential part of our programming. She excels in working with stroke survivors, consistently demonstrating patience and empathy while helping assist with weekly activities that promote mobility, confidence, and overall well-being.
Vivien also represents LSSG at health fairs and community events, helping spread stroke awareness and connect individuals to our services. She plans to continue making an impact in rehabilitation and recovery as a future physical therapist.
Christopher Benavides, Program Outreach Aide
We’re proud to have Christopher Benavides as part of the Laredo Stroke Support Group team, serving as our Program Outreach Aide. Chris is a recent graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Health with a concentration in Exercise Science. After joining LSSG as a volunteer, Chris quickly became a trusted leader through his compassion, reliability, and commitment to service.
Chris helps lead our Walking Club, assists with adaptive sports and weekly activities, and represents LSSG at health fairs and community events. Having witnessed the impact of stroke within his own family, he is dedicated to supporting survivors and their caregivers in Laredo. Chris plans to pursue a career in medicine, with a special interest in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, where he hopes to help individuals restore function, improve quality of life, and regain independence following injury or illness.
