Stopping to Smell the Roses: How You Made This Valentine’s Day Extra Special | | |
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"Wait, this is a real rose? A really real rose?"
The residents at Vista Maria loved every part of their Valentine’s Day festivities. The cupcakes were delicious, and the personalized cards were sweet, but the roses—those simple yet powerful symbols of love and care—are what truly made our youth feel special.
And why wouldn’t they? We all love receiving something thoughtful, special, and out-of-the-ordinary. Over the years, many of our youth have shared that Valentine's Day at Vista Maria was the first time they had ever been given a real flower. A single rose may seem like a small gesture, but for a young person who has experienced foster care, trauma, or a mental health crisis, it can mean so much more. It’s a tangible reminder that they are valued, seen, and worthy of love.
We are incredibly grateful to Michigan Legacy Credit Union for sponsoring our Valentine’s Day delivery for the second year in a row. Their generosity provided each resident with a personalized Valentine, a beautiful rose, and a delicious treat from Nothing Bundt Cakes—not just for our youth, but for our dedicated staff as well.
A special thank you to the 4th grade class at Clawson Elementary School, who poured their hearts into creating handmade valentines for our residents. Your kindness and creativity brought so much joy, and your thoughtfulness made a real impact!
Our heartfelt thanks also go out to the amazing volunteers who took the time to write Valentine’s messages, living out our core value of individual worth in such a meaningful way. And to our staff, who braved the freezing temperatures to ensure every single youth received their special delivery—thank you for going above and beyond (and for having fun while doing it!).
Flowers and sweet treats may make Valentine’s Day feel special, but it’s the care and thought behind these gestures that truly matter. For our youth, knowing that their community took the time to let them know they are loved is a gift that lasts long beyond the holiday. Thank you for being part of this tradition, and for making sure our youth feel truly cherished—not just on February 14, but all year long.
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Be the Unwavering Stability Every Child Deserves | |
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The news about potential federal funding changes has raised important questions for organizations like Vista Maria. Although our funding remains stable for now, any cuts or delays could significantly affect our ability to serve families, children in foster care, trauma survivors, and young adults transitioning to independence.
This uncertainty shows just how important donors like you are. Your compassion provides safe foster homes, mental health care, and education. Now, more than ever, we need your support to keep these programs strong and help them thrive!
Invest in Vista Maria’s Future
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Become a monthly donor to provide the stability our youth need each month.
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Make a one-time donation to help meet the immediate needs of the youth we serve.
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Consider a legacy gift by including us in your financial plans to create a lasting impact on young lives for years to come.
- From a birthday wish on Facebook to hosting a fundraising event, there are many ways you can inspire others to join you in giving to Vista Maria!
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Spread the Word
- Share our posts on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to amplify our mission and success stories.
- Talk to friends and colleagues about the importance of funding for child welfare and mental health programs. Please encourage them to volunteer or donate.
- If you know a business owner, share our opportunities for event sponsorship. Starting as low as $225, sponsorship is a great way to promote your business while supporting Vista Maria.
Advocate with Your Legislators
- Contact your members of Congress to express the importance of protecting funds for child welfare and mental health programs.
- Not sure what to say? Here are a few talking points to help.
- You can find your state and federal representatives at usa.gov.
Your support is not just appreciated-- it is truly essential. Thank you for joining us in this mission!
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We’re planning a year of incredible events, and we want you to be part of it. Join us in 2025 to help celebrate resilience, foster transformation, and create lasting impact. | |
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Fearless Heart Gala
Thursday, May 15
One Campus Martius
Detroit
Ford Purchasing Golf Outing
Monday, June 2
Dearborn Country Club
Dearborn
George Blaha’s High Hopes
Invitational
Monday, June 9
Tam-O-Shanter Country Club
West Bloomfield
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Women Fore! Women Golf Outing
Tuesday, August 12
Fox Hills Golf & Banquet Center
Plymouth
Empowerment Lunch
Tuesday, September 9
Plum Hollow Country Club
Southfield
Dolly Drive
Thursday, October 9
The Whiskey Factory
Detroit
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In Winter, We Don’t Chill—We Create! | |
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The cold might be creeping in, but our youth aren’t just sitting around frozen in place. Instead, they’ve been diving into hands-on activities to keep their creativity flowing and their energy up—because why just weather the winter when you can make it fun?
From high-energy group games that get everyone moving (and staying warm!) to expressive art therapy sessions that turn emotions into masterpieces, there’s never a dull moment. Around here, we don’t hibernate—we create, move, and make the most of every season!
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Many of our youth have their sights set on careers in cosmetology. In recent workshops, they’ve been building their skills and confidence, experimenting with eye shadow, foundation, and creative techniques to bring their beauty visions to life. The results? Let’s just say these silicone faces have never looked better! Our youth have really enjoyed mastering makeup and gaining the confidence to turn their passion into a future career. | |
Our young DIY-ers have even been whipping up their own self-care goodies, from silky-smooth body scrubs to handmade soap and nourishing hair oil. We learned that self-care isn’t just about relaxation—it’s also about mixing, measuring, and a little bit of mad scientist energy! And with all of this creativity bubbling up, we might even have some future beauty entrepreneurs in the making! | |
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There are a few open spots in our activities calendars that need filling, so we asked the youth what kinds of activities they most want to do, and they gave us some great suggestions. Now we're looking for volunteers to help bring those ideas to life! Can you help?
Volunteers are Needed: Mondays and Fridays, between 4pm and 7pm, or on weekends, between 11am-3pm or 4pm-7pm.
If you're ready to get started, or would like more information, please fill out our Volunteer Interest Form or contact Maddie Phillips at mphillips@vistamaria.org or 313-203-4991.
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Volleyball Instructors
Love volleyball? Our kids would love to learn! Help beginners build confidence with basic skills like passing, setting, and serving. Whether it’s a one-time session or a recurring group, you’ll be giving them a chance to learn teamwork, stay active, and have fun!
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Residential Activities
Host a relaxing Spa Day, get creative with painting, or lead an exciting game tournament (think Uno, Phase 10, or other favorites!). These activities give our kids a chance to unwind, express themselves, and just be kids! (Weekends are preferred for these activities.)
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Group Dance Instructors
Got rhythm? Share it! Teach fun, easy-to-follow dance routines that encourage movement, creativity, and confidence. Whether it’s hip-hop, basic steps, or just moving to the beat, your energy can help our kids find joy in dance!
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Help Fill Our Boutique Shelves | |
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The Vista Boutique is more than a place to find clothes—it’s where our youth can express themselves, feel comfortable in their own skin, and step into their own self worth. Every donation makes a difference, and right now, we could really use:
- Braiding hair
- Eco Gel
- Plastic tampons
- Sensitive skin body wash
- Sports bras
- Poster board
- Acrylic paint
- Canvas boards
- Jigsaw puzzles (300 pieces or less)
- Markers
All donations must be brand new. Please contact Maddie Phillips at mphillips@vistamaria.org or 313-203-4991 with any questions.
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This is the Boutique's "Fun Room", filled with games, books, and craft supplies. | |
Earlier this month, youth in Beata Hall took part in a fun and thoughtful Valentine’s Day activity. They colored Valentine's Day bears and wrote heartfelt notes to the staff in their building, sharing messages of kindness and appreciation. Now, their Valentines are posted all over the walls, filling the building with love and words of gratitude. | | | | |
