The Vista Maria I Know
by Mary E. Brown
Recent press coverage of Vista Maria may draw readers to believe that it’s a terrible place, careless and even brutal in its management of vulnerable youth. Let me describe to you the Vista Maria I know.
This June will mark 13 years since I began as a volunteer at Vista Maria. My group, Vista Maria READS, has visited the campus monthly during those years, bringing books of all sorts to the residents.
I’ve gotten to know the place pretty well. Let me share it with you. Come by this July and you’ll see the brand-new swimming pool offering summer fun. In late October, you’ll see the kids giddy with excitement as fully costumed, they enjoy an on-campus Trunk or Treat. On Christmas morning, you’ll hear the shouts of delight as each resident opens at least four gifts they’ve personally chosen, as well as a Christmas stocking. And year round, you’ll see a beautiful boutique that allows these children of poverty to find fashionable clothes.
Take a look at Vista’s website (vistamaria.org) and you’ll see the wide scope of services offered, ranging from tutoring to career prep to transition to independent living. Volunteers offer opportunities that include religious and spiritual support, individual mentorships, and workshops in lots of fun areas.
Before you make a judgement about Vista Maria, remember how tricky it is to raise teenagers, especially those who have been abused and traumatized, and who, removed from their homes, struggle with anxiety, uncertainty, depression, grief, and deep anger. Helping these heartbroken kids to heal is very challenging work. When we bring our books each month, we see the quiet work done by staff as they interact daily with the kids, and we respect that work.
Is life always perfect at Vista Maria? Of course not. Working with hurt kids isn’t easy and finding courageous, loving souls to work with them isn’t easy, either. But believe me, the Vista Maria I know bears little resemblance to the place suggested by recent testimonials. It seeks to “protect, encompass, embolden, and empower” vulnerable kids. Everyone I’ve met there is steadfast in pursuit of these goals.
Mary
VM Reads Volunteer