Vista Maria, located in Dearborn Heights, MI, is a residential and community based facility for female adolescents, ages 11 to 17, which have experienced abuse, neglect, and trauma. As residents of Vista Maria they are given the opportunity to face their tough issues and rebuild their lives by participating in the extensive array of programs made available to them.
Community based services for emotionally challenged boys and girls, ages 6 to 17, which are currently in Michigan’s foster care system, is also provided.
The children at Vista Maria receive emotional, educational, psychological and spiritual guidance.
As a volunteer at Vista Maria, you give children the opportunity to heal from past abuse, traumas, and victimization so they can become productive, self-sufficient, contributing members of society.
Volunteer Opportunities
Welcome Bags
Filled with necessities needed upon arrival. Many of the young ladies come to Vista Maria with only the clothes they are wearing and very few personal items. These Intake Bags provide personal items they will need to make it through their first initial days at the facility. They are provided a few items from Vista Maria, but it isn’t enough to carry them through an entire week.
Clothing Wish List Items
Vista Maria has a “store” in which the girls can go to select clothing. They are limited to the number of items they are permitted to take. The items can be gently used clothing, but underwear must be brand new.
(For the list of various items needed, please click on the headings above .)
Tutors
A good number of the girls have not attended school on a regular basis and are up to three years behind
academically. Tutoring would be done on the Vista Maria campus in a group setting.
One-on-One Programs
« Mentors and Big Sisters: Women, ages 21 or older, would work with a girl one-on-one. This is a full calendar commitment, spending individual time once weekly.
« Teach dance, singing, sewing, arts and crafts.
« Manicures/Hair Stylists
Host an Event for Girls (Great option for Small Groups!!!)
An example of this would be Holiday Parties, Pizza, Birthday, Hawaiian Luau, Movie Night etc.
Agency Needs
Campus Beautification (Painting, pulling weeds, planting flowers, etc.)
General Office Support
If you are interested in any of these opportunities, please contact Wendy Kearney at wkearney@vistamaria.org or at 313-271-3050 ext. 114.