Maricella Rodriguez, CEO & Owner/Operator
Maricella Rodriguez is the founder of Nurturing Spirit, established in 2019 with the mission of empowering adults with developmental disabilities through meaningful community engagement, life skills development, and compassionate support. Inspired by her son, who has a developmental disability, Maricella’s vision is rooted in both personal experience and professional dedication to creating inclusive opportunities for individuals and their families.
Maricella earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Lehman College and her Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts from Farmingdale State University. She began her career as a social worker specializing in child protective services, developing a strong foundation in advocacy and care. For more than 15 years, she has also served as a volunteer with the Miracle League of South Lake, promoting inclusion through sports.
A lifelong animal lover, Maricella has a special passion for rescue work. She fosters kittens through the Lake County Shelter and advocates for the well-being of animals in her community.
Born and raised in New York City, Maricella has lived in Central Florida for over 21 years. She and her high school sweetheart, now her husband of 30 years, have three adult sons who continue to be her greatest joy and inspiration.
