Tia is greatly indebted to these two incredible women, Patricia Garibay (Tia) and Maurilia Huerta Salas. Maurilia is a natural community leader from La Presa. Though Maurilia has no legs and underdeveloped arms, she completed her high school education and some college courses. She served as a Municipal Council Member, representing the communities in the area.

She is a champion for the surrounding villages and pleaded with PMC to bring Tia’s program to her area. She helped coordinate the living arrangements for the brigade and even helped cook the meals. Maurilia has plans to start a microenterprise foundation in her area.