Kiara's journey at Vista Maria is a testament to the transformative power of meeting challenges with courage, passion, and boundless mercy. Arriving at age 12, after bouncing around residential facilities and emergency rooms, Kiara faced immense challenges due to her cognitive impairment. But Vista Maria soon became a beacon of stability and hope for her.

Recognizing her complex needs, our clinical team crafted a personalized care plan for Kiara, focusing on extensive sensory and psychiatric support. During her time at Vista Maria, Kiara flourished. Regular reviews of her psychiatric medication, time spent in the sensory room, and adjustments to her school schedule ensured her well-being. She adored the regular pet therapy visits and found joy in artistic expression. But swimming in our outdoor pool quickly emerged as her favorite therapy activity, providing a rare sense of calm and emotional regulation.

As Kiara neared 17 years old, plans for her transition to an Adult Foster Care (AFC) placement began. Despite the small number of suitable placements available in Michigan, a spot opened up in an AFC home closer to her family just before her 18th birthday. We worked with her new county to secure essential services and, of course, made sure she had access to a local pool!

We're thrilled to announce that Vista Maria has been named a finalist in the "2023 Best Managed Nonprofits" by Crain's Detroit Business. The program honors the best in leadership and financial stewardship in Southeast Michigan’s nonprofit community.

At Vista Maria, we’re committed to making a positive impact on the lives of the youth we serve, and this recognition fuels our passion to continue creating lasting change. The award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team, supporters, and the community.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the success and impact we've accomplished.

Our campus was filled with love and warmth this Valentine's Day, thanks to YOU! We want to extend a huge Thank You to our wonderful donors, sponsors, volunteers, and Girl Scout troop 77546 at Bingham Farms Elementary School for making this day extra special for our youth. A special shoutout to Michigan Legacy Credit Union for their generous sponsorship, making our campus bloom with beautiful flowers!

From crafting heartfelt personalized valentines to donating delightful treats, you made every moment magical. The kind and uplifting messages you sent made our youth feel truly cherished and valued. Your support is the secret ingredient that makes programs like this possible. Together, we're building a brighter future, one kind gesture at a time.

Socks, underwear, and deodorant might seem like simple things, but they are essential to providing comfort and a fresh start for our youth when they arrive at Vista Maria.

You can help by shopping our Target or Amazon wish lists, and your gift will be delivered directly to our campus:

• Deodorant
• Colorful socks
• Underwear (Sizes 5 - 9)
• Packages of tampons and pads
• Edge control
• Body wash
• Body Lotion

Contact Betsy Beerer at 313-271-3050 x221 or ebeerer3811@vistamaria.org for more information.

By leaving a gift to Vista Maria, you are empowering youth and families to be agents of change in their own lives and building healthier communities for generations to come. 

Your planned gift signifies a profound commitment to the inherent worth of every individual we serve, embodying the values of our foundress, Sister Mary Euphrasia.  

Each month, a dedicated group of volunteers from the Abhi Shah Foundation host a birthday party for all of our youth on campus!

This month's party celebrated all of the February birthdays, as well as Valentine's Day, with a fun craft, a taco bar, and plenty of birthday cake.

We're incredibly grateful for all the volunteers who work so hard to help our youth have these fun childhood experiences at Vista Maria.