People often ask us, "What is your success rate at Vista Maria?" We love this question because success can take so many forms. Sometimes it’s walking across a graduation stage, sometimes it’s mastering a budget, and sometimes it’s discovering confidence they didn’t even know they had. And behind all of it is YOU. Your support makes these moments possible, and our youth are eager to share what that looks like in their own words.

This year, six of our young people proudly graduated in the Class of 2025. One is heading to Oakland University, another is starting cosmetology school, four are jumping into full-time careers, and one is already training to become a real estate agent. For these graduates, the future feels wide open.

Others are already living the college life at Eastern Michigan, Albion, Oakland, and Wayne State. One student at Wayne State came back to Shepherd Hall-- not as a resident but as a mentor to encourage and guide those who are walking the same path she did. That’s what we call full circle!

Preparing for independence means more than books and classrooms. With help from PNC Bank, our youth took part in a financial literacy series that gave them confidence with money. One participant told us, “I learned budgeting skills I never thought I’d need. Now I know how important it is to manage money and plan for my future.”

Summer jobs also played a big role, thanks to Grow Detroit’s Young Talent (GDYT). The program gave our youth real-world experience and connected them with mentors who truly care. Stephon shared, “I loved working in GDYT. It helped me and my sister open up to new people more. The work helped me vocalize things that I rarely do, and the trips gave me good insight into the community.”

Brooklyn added, “We did fun activities like painting canvases of what we wanted our future to look like and making calming bottles for when we feel overwhelmed. This experience helped me develop professional skills, boosted my confidence, and prepared me to interact better with others.”

Nate spoke about the impact of his mentor, Ms. Carolyn: “She is a very understanding and helpful coach that’ll teach you many different things. The information she has provided to me has been a great resource. She even offers help after the program ends.”

Every one of these stories carries your imprint. You are helping them dream bigger, aim higher, and step confidently into their futures. We could not be prouder of them—or more grateful for you!

What kind of elf are you?

Every year, our volunteer "elves" generously go above and beyond to provide stocking stuffers for each youth, fulfill individual wish lists, and get everything organized, wrapped, and festive in our Vista Boutique. We hope you'll join us this year!

A Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) allows you to make a donation, receive an immediate tax deduction, and then recommend grants to organizations like Vista Maria. If you’ve already contributed to your DAF this year, now is the perfect time to recommend a grant that will provide critical support for youth and families in need. Visit Donor Advised Funds - Vista Maria for more information.

Why give through your DAF?

• You’ve already received the tax benefit, now you can direct those funds to work in your community.
• It’s easy and secure to recommend a grant online through your DAF provider.
• Your support provides mental health treatment, foster care and adoption, and community-based programs for the youth and families who need it most.

A Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) is the minimum amount you must withdraw from your retirement accounts each year once you turn 73. Rather than adding this withdrawal to your taxable income, you can direct all or part of your RMD to Vista Maria. When paid directly to a charity, the amount may be excluded from your taxable income while making a meaningful difference in the lives of the youth we serve.

Why give through your RMD?

• You satisfy your annual IRS requirement while avoiding additional taxable income.
• Giving directly from your IRA can reduce your overall tax burden.
• Every dollar goes to work right away, supporting children and families who need stability and care.

How to give:

• Contact your DAF provider to recommend a grant or ask your IRA administrator about making a qualified charitable distribution.
• Vista Maria EIN: 38-1359262
• Mailing address: 20651 W. Warren Ave., Dearborn Heights, MI 48127
• For questions, contact Connie Farlow at cfarlow@vistamaria.org / 313-203-4993

Visit vistamaria.org/donate for more ways to give. Thank you for helping Vista Maria finish 2025 strong and start the new year with momentum!

“Ms. Becky, they’re putting water in the pool!” For weeks, youth in Beata Hall kept watch from their windows like official pool inspectors, literally counting down the days until they could dive in. By the time we cut the ribbon in August, their anticipation had hit its peak. The second the pool opened, kids were flying into the water with cannonballs, popping up with underwater handstands, and snorkeling laps like pros. We could hear the laughter from across campus, and it was clear the wait had paid off in the best way possible!