I live to work and work to live. While many would see this as a negative, I relish in the glory that is my work. I consider myself a DSP (Direct Support Professional) which comes with many hats that I absolutely flourish in. I started my vocational career working with individuals who have disabilities/different abilities and have continued developing my skills not only in-person but through postsecondary education. I enjoy my life’s work but also enjoy learning in all capacities. I have 2 incredibly spunky dogs and 3 cats who generally get along if not fighting for attention. I also enjoy living, exploring and absorbing all that life has to offer.
About Marissa Chavez
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I am originally from the sticks of Northern California, Ukiah and Willits. Most of my family still reside there including my mother, younger sister and older brother. My father and paternal family are from Guanajuato, Mexico but most reside in Houston, Tx. I come from a very mixed beautiful cultural background that I love sharing about.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I started my career in the disability/different ability field roughly 25 years ago in Northern California as a group home facilitator, then moved onto a adult day program. In 2003, I moved to San Diego and became a live in care aide. While working as a live in, I started my college career and graduated with a Bachelors degree in Anthropology where I focused on disability related culture studies. During this time due to the low wage of one care aide position, I began work with United Cerebral Palsy. I continued with the 2 positions but transitioned to GiGi’s Playhouse Down syndrome Achievement Center from UCP in 2022. I currently have worked as a live in care aide for the past 21 years and at GiGi’s almost 2 years. This is my career path but will continue to learn and grow to my highest potential serving those with quality care.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Follow your heart and ask questions without fear.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I see myself continuing in the field I am currently in.
Marissa Chavez & Our Community
Q: What are a few of your favorite restaurants in our community?
The Fish Shops, Biggies Burgers, Luche Libre, The Broken Yolk, Robertos.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
21 years in San Diego.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Tattoo Mike of Chronic Tattoo in Pacific Beach.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Robertos.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
The variety of people.
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?
I would like to have lunch with Judy Huemann.
For Fun
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Movie – The Color Purple, TV show – My So Called Life.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I’m 1/2 Mexican.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
The Broken Yolk’s Cali Benedict.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
The participants I support.
Q: What community organizations and/or local nonprofits do you admire/support?
Foundation on Developmental Disabilities.
Q: What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Live life to your fullest.
Please describe your ideal San Diego weekend:
Camping with some good local brew and food.
Q: Finally, what three words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Comfortable, welcoming, Open
