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The Healing Power of Connection: One-on-One Mentoring at Vista Maria
Healing from trauma often begins with connection. For the youth in our residential mental health programs, having someone to listen, encourage, and share meaningful moments can make all the difference. That’s the heart of our one-on-one mentoring program. |
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This program pairs youth in residence with volunteer mentors who show up weekly to offer support, guidance, and fun. Whether it’s talking things through, learning life skills, or simply hanging out, mentors provide the consistent care our youth need to thrive.
“I like being able to provide consistency,” said Olivia, a mentor. “Their life looks a lot different, and I like being there for her.” Another mentor, Isabelle, shared, “We learn from each other.” Mentees agree, with one sharing, “She is someone who will support me along the way,” and another adding, “We paint, do crafts, and talk about life.”
Quarterly Mentor Nights bring everyone together for laughter, food, and connection. This fall’s gathering featured games, modeling clay, and even sugar scrub making. As one mentee put it, “My favorite thing? Everything!”
These relationships go beyond activities—they’re about being seen, valued, and creating moments of trust and joy, one conversation, one game, one laugh at a time. Your support makes this program possible, providing the supplies, training, and shared meals that help kids feel special, supported, and deeply connected. Thank you for making a difference! |
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Youth Spotlight: Celebrating Unique Paths to Healing
“I’m going to need all the black clothes we have.” |
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When Alana stepped into the Vista Maria Boutique, she was preparing to share her story through Moment of Truth, an autobiographical play she wrote, directed, and produced. This deeply personal performance was her journey of healing.
At Vista Maria, no two healing journeys look the same. Each youth’s path is unique, and our programs reflect that individuality. For Alana, it involved expressive therapies like art, writing, and performance. With support from therapists and peers, she transformed her pain into a powerful narrative of resilience.
Her play wasn’t just storytelling—it was about reclaiming her voice. From script to set design, every detail reflected her strength and creativity. Alana’s journey reminds us that healing is deeply individual. At Vista Maria, we honor each youth’s unique needs, helping them grow, express themselves, and find their paths to recovery. Through Moment of Truth, Alana demonstrated the transformative power of self-expression and the potential within every young person. |
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Foster Parent Spotlight: Courtney
Foster care isn’t about one moment—it’s about a lifetime of them. It’s about showing up, giving your all, and letting kids just be kids. It’s the day-to-day care, staying up late on Christmas Eve to catch Santa, and creating those sparks of joy that make life magical.
That’s where Vista Maria—and you—come in. It truly takes a village to raise kids. Foster parents do so much, but even they can use a little help from Santa’s elves. |
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Each Child’s Story is as Unique as a Snowflake
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Last month, you received this card from us. We hope you will make a gift today!
When you give to Vista Maria, you’re not just offering financial support—you’re changing the life of a child who walks through our doors. You’re showing them they are more than their circumstances, their past, or what the world has told them they could be. You’re helping them see their worth and limitless potential. And that’s the greatest gift of all. |
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Give Now
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Thank you to all of our Wish List 2024 donors, shoppers, and volunteers. Your generosity made this holiday season unforgettable for our youth. Watch this special video to see a few of their heartfelt notes—it’s all because of you!
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Healing Through Fun
Every child who has experienced trauma deserves the chance to heal, grow, and explore their potential. That’s where Erinn McGowan, one of our new Activities Coordinators, comes in. Erinn creates safe, fun, and meaningful activities that help youth connect, express themselves, and feel heard.
During out-of-school time, Erinn tailors activities to each resident’s interests—whether it’s hair-braiding, talent shows, or sports—with one goal: to keep them active and engaged. “It’s so important for them to feel in control and heard,” she says. These activities do more than entertain—they help youth heal. Through recreation, they build trust, learn new skills, and grow in ways they never thought possible.
These activities aren’t just about fun—they’re about healing. Recreation helps kids open up in ways traditional therapy might not. “Through art or sports, they build trust, learn skills, and grow in ways they didn’t think possible,” says Erinn. From making friendship bracelets to sharing laughs during karaoke, these moments help youth express themselves and connect with others.
Your support can create even more opportunities. Donations provide supplies like sports equipment, Lego kits, or mannequin heads for cosmetology activities. Every contribution shows these kids they matter and helps them heal and thrive. |
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Making Waves: Construction Begins on Our New Pool!
 
At Vista Maria, our pool is more than a summer activity—it’s a space for healing, growth, and connection. Each year, over 200 youth and families benefit from water safety education, swimming lessons, and aquatic therapy, all fostering recovery from trauma and building self-worth. Many of the youth we serve have lacked access to safe water play due to limited facilities, transportation challenges, or inability to swim. Thanks to the generous support of the Abhi Shah Foundation, the Douglas Allison Foundation, and the Toni A. Wisne Foundation, our new pool will make these transformative experiences accessible to all.
   
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