Mary Martinez

“If you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.”

In 1994, I earned my degree in Gerontology from New Mexico State University, beginning a 30-plus-year journey dedicated to serving older adults, their families, and the professionals who care for them. I cannot imagine doing anything else. It has been an amazing and rewarding journey.

My passion for elder care began in childhood. I loved spending time with my grandmother in Colorado and watching how she and her neighbors looked out for one another. Growing up, older neighbors would call my mother and ask her to “send Mary over.” I was always helping—doing yard work, changing light bulbs, hanging pictures, decorating Christmas trees, house sitting, pet sitting, and whatever else was needed. Caring for others has simply always been part of my life.

In college, I helped establish the Sociology Student Association and developed programs supporting seniors. What began with students grew into partnerships with other organizations. Together, we painted homes, completed minor repairs, and organized a large holiday gift drive delivering gifts to seniors throughout Doña Ana County.

That spirit of service continued throughout my career. Through Home Instead, Santa to a Senior delivered thousands of gifts to older adults. I also partnered with Adult Protective Services to establish UNMAAA and its annual adult abuse prevention conference. I helped build a statewide organization of home care providers that advocated for improvements to state home care regulations.

One of my greatest rewards has been watching people I mentored grow into nurses, physicians, care professionals, and leaders. Their success and continued service are among the greatest legacies of my career.

My philosophy is simple: when you have the ability to make a positive difference, you should.

That same spirit drew me to the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce, where I have witnessed businesses and communities grow through connection and support.

As I enter retirement from Home Instead, I will continue serving on the boards I support and promoting the Hispano Chamber’s mission. You haven’t seen the last of me!