Originally from Colorado, I spent 28 years in the picturesque Hudson Valley of New York, raising my two boys amidst its rolling landscapes. I made the leap to sunny San Diego seven years ago, trading the greenery of New York’s Hudson Valley for stunning scenery and rich cultural tapestry of this vibrant city. Needless to say, it’s been an exhilarating journey, and I’ve truly embraced the vibrant spirit of San Diego!
Professionally, I’ve always been driven by a passion for fostering growth and forging meaningful connections. Currently serving as the Director of Development for Access Youth Academy, a nonprofit here in San Diego, I’m deeply committed to empowering disadvantaged youth to reach their full potential. Rooted in a strong sense of social justice, my approach to work is guided by empathy and a genuine desire to make a difference.
Balancing optimism, discipline, and a relentless work ethic, I specialize in weaving together various facets of my role – from grant writing to donor relations – into a cohesive narrative that propels sustainable development. As long as there are stories to tell and lives to uplift, I remain steadfast in my commitment to driving positive change and creating opportunities for those who need them most.
About Cindy Sweeney
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I am the mother of two amazing young men, one who is married and lives in San Diego, and the other who recently moved back to the Hudson Valley after living in San Diego for the last year.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I come from a background as an entrepreneur. I began my professional career as a clothing designer, and produced a clothing line in Indonesia for about 8 years. After that I transitioned to selling custom-made and exotic furniture and home decor items out of retail locations in the Hudson Valley. After a number of years in retail I tired of the volatility and began to seek other careers in which I could put my unique skill-set to use. Working in non-profit business development has been the perfect transition. I love that I am able to use my skills in service of social justice and being an agent of positive change.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Life has many seasons, and what may seem like a big deal at the time, may later end up being one of the best things that happened to you. Roll with the changes and always keep a positive attitude. Failure is only in your mind and everything thing that happens is an opportunity for growth.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I plan to continue working in the nonprofit sector in some capacity for the rest of my professional life.
Cindy Sweeney & Our Community
Q: What are a few of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Trupianos in Fallbrook has amazing Italian food. I am also a huge fan of the fish tacos at Kojita Jr.’s taco shops. Also, Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern – great burgers and marina views. My favorite pre-concert-at-Humphreys spot.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
Seven years.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Oh my goodness…too many too list. My work brings me in contact with a lot of very interesting people.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I like to say that San Diego is a very “palatable” city. I am generally not a fan of cities and much prefer country living, but professionally needed a place with more population density than the rural locations I prefer for my home life. What I love about San Diego is the amount of open space built into the city. It somehow makes it fell slightly less city-ish.
Q: If you could choose anyone alive today and not a relative, with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you meet for this lunch?
Michele and Barak Obama. From what I’ve seen of both of them, they embody the perfect balance between strength and compassion. I am inspired every time I hear either of them speak. I would try to find a simple and not overly crowded waterfront eatery.
For Fun
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Independence Day (super cheezy movie and I’ve watched it a million times). I also very much enjoyed Queen’s Gambit. ANYTHING with Robin Williams.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I worked professionally as a flying trapeze artist in the circus for a number of years. I performed all over the United States, in Dubai, and spent a year in Japan working with a traveling circus.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Travel. Anywhere, any time.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
I inspire me to be better and am a proponent of life-long improvement.
Q: What community organizations and/or local nonprofits do you admire/support?
Aside from Access Youth Academy, I have always been a fan of the work being done by Oasis and other organizations (such as Meals on Wheels) supporting seniors. I also admire Habitat for Humanity for their business model and impact.
Q: What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
If you can dream it, you can do it. Don’t give up.
Q: What Neighborhood do you live in?
Poway / Rancho Bernardo
What I love about my Neighborhood:
Proximity to the mountains and hiking trails. As a Colorado native, I am drawn to mountains.
Please describe your ideal San Diego weekend:
Time with friends and/or family: Saturday – Morning hike followed by lunch and listening to music at a winery. Sunday – sailing.
Q: Finally, what three words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Home is a feeling and a set of values not a place. For me home is love, acceptance, and loyalty.
