Long-time Albuquerque human rights activist Marilyn Stoops was recognized by Church Women United (CWU) for her contributions to the community. The honor was given at the national organization's Human Rights Day Celebration. CWU is a racially, culturally, theologically and inclusive Christian women’s movement which celebrates unity and diversity and works for peace in the world. Ms. Stoops has been an active member member of CWU since 1963.
Marilyn Stoops is currently secretary for ABQ FaithWorks Board of Directors and is one of its founding members. She has served on several area boards, committees and working task groups to ensure that all people receive the help and support that they need. People experiencing mental health challenges or homelessness, or are otherwise disenfranchised, are especially close to her heart.
Ms. Stoops received her Bachelor's Degree from Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, and a Master's Degree in public administration from New Mexico State University. After a professional career in both the faith community and in medical offices, Ms. Stoops began to focus on "what I really wanted to do"...extensive and impactful volunteer work to improve the communities in which she has lived.
Her active involvement included volunteer work at the Penitentiary of New Mexico three years before the infamous riots. There Ms. Stoops offered a listening ear to inmates as part of their restorative journey. "I learned that many were victims long before they were perpetrators," she said, a comment that is reflective of her compassionate understanding.
Other community work has included 20 years with Albuquerque Interfaith, helping to form the New Mexico chapter of National Organization for Women (NOW), founding board member of New Mexico Community Foundation, serving with Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, and advocating for transitional living options in Belen, New Mexico, for people with mental disabilities.
Ms. Stoops lives in Nob Hill, Albuquerque, with her husband, Richard. Together they have a blended family of 7 children, 13 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren (with two more on the way).
ABQ FaithWorks is honored to have such an inspirational and talented community organizer helping us work with asylum seekers and people experiencing homelessness as we strive to achieve our vision that all people are safely housed and integrated into healthy communities. Congratulations to Marilyn Stoops for such a well-deserved honor.