Fresia Guzman Honored with Peacemaker Award

Program Director Fresia Guzman was recently honored with the Street Outreach Network's Martin Luther King Peacemaker Award for her exceptional work in fostering a supportive environment for youth in Montgomery County. Fresia was among 8 community leaders from nonprofits, business, education and government recognized for their work reflecting Dr. King’s legacy of peace and connection through their efforts to prevent violence and bring peace to their neighborhoods.  

“I am deeply grateful to the Street Outreach Network for the work we do together” says Fresia, “and proud to have been recognized for my small role in creating opportunities and safe spaces to spread peace and connection.” 

Fresia oversees the county’s two Youth Opportunity Centers, one in Gaithersburg and one in Takoma Park, which emphasize mentoring and building social, emotional and job readiness skills to help vulnerable older youth connect or re-connect to the education system, the workforce, their families and the community.  The YOCs assist nearly 600 young people annually, in partnership with the Street Outreach Network.

“We are so proud of the life-changing work carried out by Fresia and her team that makes Montgomery County a better place to grow up,” said Diego Uriburu, Identity’s Executive Director.   

Fresia (3rd from left) surrounded by her team and colleagues at the Street Outreach Network Peacemaker Awards.

SON staffer Maria Del Mar Borrero previously worked with Identity and Fresia as a Case Manager and congratulates her during the presentation.

Fresia was among 8 people recognized for their work creating peace and community.