Inspired by a commitment to social justice, Maria Eitz has devoted her personal life and her career to improving the lives of children locally and internationally. She founded and directed Respite Care in San Francisco, California where for 35 years she offered free child care; early assessment; interventions for at-risk children; and support for parents. She is also the founder and director of Medical Volunteers International and has extensive experience creating human rights programs in Asia and Africa for children and their parents affected by wars, natural disasters and famine. Maria was born in Germany in 1939. Maria has an extensive background in psychology and theology. Since her retirement in 2012 Maria has been ordained a Roman Catholic Woman Priest and now has a ministry in San Francisco, California.