Full Name
Maria Cruz Wood
Company
Harvest Outreach Center
Job Title
Director Of Programs
Speaker Bio
Maria Wood is the Director of Programs at Harvest Outreach Center, a Virginia-based nonprofit that partners with schools and community systems to deliver behavioral and mental health services. When she began her leadership role, the organization employed about 25 staff. Through her collaboration with the Executive Director, Director of Operations, and Clinical Director, Harvest Outreach has grown to more than 110 employees, expanding its reach and impact across Central Virginia.
A Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) with over a decade of experience, Maria leads multi-site operations, program development, and systems-improvement initiatives that emphasize ethical leadership, accountability, and strong team culture. She is known for turning complex organizational challenges into clear, actionable strategies that foster professionalism and collaboration.
A frequent conference presenter, Maria has spoken at the Southeastern School Behavioral Health Conference (2025), the Virginia Tiered Systems of Supports Conference (2024), and the Virginia Network of Private Providers Behavioral Health Conference (2019). She also serves on the Board of the Virginia Association of Community-Based Providers (VACBP) and is an active member of the Virginia Network of Private Providers (VNPP).
Maria Wood