SESLOC Credit Union, in partnership with Downtown Fridays, celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month by honoring three local leaders with the inaugural Unidos in Community Awards on Friday, September 18, at Downtown Fridays in Santa Maria.
Created around the message “One Community. Many Cultures. Stronger Together,” the awards recognize Hispanic leaders whose contributions reach across cultures and backgrounds to make the entire Santa Maria Valley a stronger, more connected community.
This year’s honorees were recognized for their contributions in Local Business, Local Non-Profit and First Responder service.
“At SESLOC, we believe strong communities are built by people who show up, serve others and bring people together,” said Kelli Briggs, Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer of SESLOC Credit Union. “These three individuals represent the spirit of Unidos. While we are proud to celebrate their Hispanic heritage, we are equally proud to recognize the positive impact they have on our entire community.”
2026 Unidos in Community Award Recipients
Teresa “Tere” Paredes — Local Business: A third-generation owner of Maya Restaurant, Paredes continues a family legacy of more than 60 years in the Santa Maria Valley. Her extensive community involvement includes leadership with the Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce, PCPA, Hispanic Business Alliance, Santa Maria Police Council and Rotary. Her commitment to faith, family and “Service Above Self” is reflected in her ongoing support of local families, youth and community organizations.
Roberto Rodriguez — Local Non-Profit: A U.S. Navy veteran, Rodriguez has dedicated nearly 26 years to serving local children and families through the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Maria Valley. His commitment to the community also includes decades of mentoring young people through athletics and approximately nine years of service with Rotary. He believes strongly in using his time and talents to serve others and invest in the next generation.
Officer Daniel Meraz — First Responder: Meraz has served the Santa Maria community throughout his law enforcement career, beginning as a Santa Maria Police Explorer and later returning to the Santa Maria Police Department, where he has served for approximately nine years. Known for going beyond his assigned duties, he has developed partnerships with local nonprofits, businesses, schools and community leaders while creating opportunities that strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the community.
The recipients were recognized on stage during Downtown Fridays on Friday, September 18, as part of the evening’s Hispanic Heritage Month celebration.
Through the Unidos in Community Awards, SESLOC and Downtown Fridays hoped to shine a light on individuals who demonstrate that community leadership is not defined by a title, profession or background, but by a willingness to serve others and bring people together.
One Community. Many Cultures. Stronger Together.