Dr. Ciriaco "Cid" Pinedo

Dr. Ciriaco “Cid” Pinedo assumed the role of President and CEO of the Mexican American Opportunity Foundation (MAOF) in April 2022, becoming only the third individual to hold this position since its founding in 1963. Under his leadership, MAOF, with a $270 million operating budget, serves over 125,000 under-resourced individuals annually. He guides the committed team of 900 professionals in realizing MAOF’s vision to be the preeminent provider of comprehensive human and social services that empower families to attain self-sufficiency and contribute to a dynamic community. His vision is a dream and a roadmap to a brighter future for under-resourced communities.

Before joining MAOF, Dr. Pinedo served as President and CEO of Children’s Fund, which supports children facing poverty, abuse, and neglect. His extensive experience includes roles in the affordable housing industry as the President of the Hope through Housing Foundation and Chief Operating Officer of National CORE, and in education, having served as Associate Superintendent of Business Services and Economic Development at Chaffey College, as well as Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations at the University of La Verne.

Dr. Pinedo, an expert in poverty alleviation and a sought-after speaker and presenter, passionately advocates for under-resourced communities striving to decriminalize poverty and reform systemic barriers. His approach integrates prevention, education, and advocacy to ensure equitable access to essential resources. Dr. Pinedo’s journey and deep understanding of the challenges faced by under-resourced communities fuel his commitment to the cause.

A dedicated and active community member, Dr. Pinedo participates on various boards, such as the Child Care Alliance of LA, Inland Action, Adventist Health White Memorial Charitable Foundation, Gracelight Community Health, and the Riverside Art Museum-Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art, Culture, and History.

Dr. Pinedo, a first-generation college graduate and the son of Mexican immigrants, was raised in El Monte, CA. He attended Rio Hondo Community College, earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from St. John’s Seminary College, and a doctorate in organizational leadership and management from the University of La Verne. In 2021, Union Institute & University awarded Dr. Pinedo an honorary doctorate for his contributions to transforming lives and communities. Alongside his wife, Dr. Teresa Pinedo, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services for the El Monte City School District, they are dedicated to transforming the lives of children and families by ensuring access and support.