Leadership

Mara Cardenas

Founder & President

Guided by faith, restoration and purpose.

The Neglected But Not Forsaken Foundation was born from both lived experience and a

deep sense of calling.

Mara's life and leadership have been shaped by moments of feeling unseen, excluded,

and at times, forgotten - experiences that instilled in her a deep sense of responsibility to

show up for others even while navigating her own silent challenges.

Through these experiences, she saw firsthand how many individuals — particularly youth,

women, and families — carry great responsibility while quietly enduring hardship. She

recognized that while some resources exist, they are not always accessible, sufficient, or

rooted in genuine care.

Guided by faith, and a belief in restoration, Mara created the Neglected But Not

Forsaken Foundation to provide not only support and resources, but opportunities for

healing, growth, and transformation.

Mara brings over 21 years of experience in human resources, inclusion and organizational

leadership, helping shape a thoughtful and people centered approach to this work. Her

leadership is grounded in compassion, strategy, and a deep commitment to meeting

people where they are and guiding them forward.

A Seattle native, Mara holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Individual and Family Development from Seattle Pacific University. She also holds certification in Change Management from Cornell University and Inclusive & Ethical Leadership from the University of South Florida Muma College of Business.

Through strategic programs, partnerships, and community-based support, the foundation is committed to expanding access to healing, education, and transformative opportunities for individuals and families.

The Neglected But Not Forsaken Foundation is supported by a Board of Directors committed to stewardship, integrity, and mission alignment.

Every individual deserves to be seen, supported, and given the opportunity to heal, grow, and walk in purpose. Mara leads with a commitment to helping those who have experienced exclusion and hardship, helping them feel seen and providing them with access to the support, opportunity, and pathway needed to thrive.