March | 2024

Volunteer News

You protect. You encompass. You embolden. You empower.

Hi Friends,


As we all experience the unpredictability of spring in Michigan—from blooming flowers to surprise snowstorms—we're reminded of the ever-changing nature of this season.


But one thing that never changes is your unwavering support for Vista Maria's youth and mission. I am so grateful to each of you for your commitment to our kids and for showing them that they are valued every single day.


This month, we're on a mission to inspire others to join our volunteer family, and there's no better way to do that than by sharing your experiences. So, if you have a moment, we'd LOVE to hear from you! Please click the link below to write a line or two about your volunteer experience. It doesn't need to be long, and it can even be anonymous. Any reflection you can share would be greatly appreciated.


Finally, our team is gearing up for the 2024 event season. Whether you're volunteering for a few hours or just joining us for a cocktail at one of our upcoming events, we look forward to seeing you!


Thank you for all that you do. Even on gray days, your dedication and generosity truly brighten the lives of the youth we serve. Here's to a season filled with warmth, renewal, and endless possibilities! 🌱


I hope to see you soon,





Jessica Marcetti, MA, CVA

Senior Manager, Community Engagement

Share Your Story

Help us spread the word about volunteering at Vista Maria and encourage others to put their hearts to work and volunteer with us.


Whether it's a funny moment, a connection with one of our youth, or just how volunteering has impacted your life, we want to hear from you!

Share Your Experience

Volunteer Opportunity:

Fearless Heart Gala

Our 25th Annual Fearless Heart Gala is on Thursday, May 16th, at One Campus Martius.

This is our largest event of the year, and it honors the extraordinary accomplishments of the youth we serve.


We are looking for volunteer support for three shifts.

  • Set Up | 11:00 am-3:00 pm
  • Program | 3:00-8:30 pm
  • Tear Down | 8:00-10:30 pm

Prior to this event, we will host an optional volunteer orientation where we will go over roles and responsibilities for the day. For more information or to sign up, please contact Betsy Beerer, at ebeerer3811@vistamaria.org 

The Vista Boutique Needs Your Help

Our Boutique shelves need a little love! We are running low on a few essential items. Can you help us replenish our supply? All donated items must be brand new, and we recommend checking out our wish lists to have your gift shipped directly to Vista Maria.

T-Shirts

Solid colors preferred

Sizes Small, Medium, Large, XL


Underwear

Colorful, soft, and appropriate for tweens/teens

Women's Sizes 5, 6, 7, 8, 9


Plastic Water Bottles

Clear plastic

No straws, metal or glass


Deodorant

Any brand or scent

Men's and women's


Please Visit our Wish Lists to Shop

Our Amazon and Target lists are updated regularly with the items we need most. Your gift will be delivered directly to Vista Maria!

Shop Amazon
Shop Target

The Vista Boutique

If you've never visited our Vista Boutique, we would love to have you come for a visit! This special on-campus shop is set aside for residents to select free clothes, shoes, personal products, and accessories.


We have a few dedicated volunteers who come weekly, and we are seeking one or two more to support regularly. Volunteers help with inventory, organization, laundry, stocking shelves, and making the Boutique a place where our youth feel beautiful, cared for, and empowered!

Save our 2024 Dates!

Vista Maria is pleased to invite you to our upcoming signature fundraising events in 2024. Ranging from golf invitationals to informational luncheons to our Fearless Heart Gala, there is something for everyone!



Each year, these events raise over $800,000 in support of the vulnerable youth and families across our continuum of care. We hope you will join us and embrace your fearless heart as we celebrate our youth and families and raise the much-needed funds to continue carrying out our mission.

 

Together, we can give them a life beyond trauma.

Volunteer Spotlight:

Ascent Global Logistics

Ascent Global Logistics

Earlier this month, some awesome volunteers from Ascent Global Logistics swung by DeRoy Hall with a cool bracelet-making activity. Inspired by Taylor Swift's recent tour, where she rocked handmade friendship bracelets, the kids had a great time crafting their own colorful creations.


Amidst laughter and snack breaks, the youth and volunteers enjoyed chatting and vibing with each other and the volunteers. It was a blast, and everyone left with new bracelets and big smiles.

Get Ready for Spring in a New Vista Maria T-Shirt

These T-shirts have been rigorously tested by our staff and volunteers. We can confirm they are an excellent base layer for those Michigan spring days that somehow have all 4 seasons in 24 hours.


Check out our Bonfire store to stock up. We've kept the prices as low as Bonfire will let us and any profit from the sales comes right back to Vista Maria, so you can look good and DO good at the same time!

Stay in Touch!

Jessica Marcetti

Sr. Manager, Community Engagement

313-203-4990

jmarcetti@vistamaria.org


Maddie Phillips

Mentor & Volunteer Coordinator

313-271-3050, ext.221

mphillips@vistamaria.org


Betsy Beerer

Marketing Coordinator

313-271-3050, ext. 119

ebeerer3811@vistamaria.org

Becky Hermann

DREAM Program Manager

313-203-2027

rhermann@vistamaria.org


Janet Jones

Values Educator / Heartmovers Coordinator

313-271-3050, ext.123

jjones@vistamaria.org

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