Fostering Hope

At Maryvale, we pride ourselves on providing the secure environment our children and staff need to succeed. Maintaining vigilance and practicing safety are among a handful of actions we take to keep us protected. 

But, since 'tis the season, we get it. Right now, finding the perfect gift, celebrating a great parking spot and even showing off that hideous sweater decorated with tinsel and twinkling lights is your priority. Unfortunately, this level of excitement leaves people vulnerable to holiday related crimes and dangers. 

At Home

1. Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when leaving the house, even for a few minutes.

2. Large displays or holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.

3. Constantly inspect Christmas light wiring.

4. When setting up a Christmas tree or other holiday displays, make sure doors and passageways are clear. 

5. Place your live Christmas tree in water or wet sand to keep it green and healthy, prevent it from becoming a fire hazard.

6. Criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts. Solicitors may come to your door requesting donations. Ask for identification.

7. If you're going on vacation, have a neighbor or family member watch your home. 

8. Don't announce your travel plans on social media! 

Shopping & Child Safety

9. Don't leave packages and valuables on the seat of your car. Lock it in the trunk or keep it out of sight.  

10. When using an ATM, choose one inside a police station, mall or well-lit location.

11. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

12. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.  

13. Be extra careful when carrying a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas or public transit systems. 

14. Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. Con-artists will try various methods of distraction in attempt to steal your valuables or belongings. 

15. Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom. 

16. Teach children their full name, address and phone number to give to officers or mall security should you get separated.

Gas prices were a $1.16. A brand new Ford Mustang was $6,500. The world was introduced to the now-iconic characters, the Mario Bros. It was 1983, the year Mary Urbina joined Maryvale.

Going strong as a passionate Resident Counselor, this month marks Mary's 35th year at Maryvale. For her amazing commitment to fellow staff and our children, we are proud to deem Mary one of our Superheroes. Happy Anniversary Mary!

Flexible, adaptable, thrives through change – all characteristics that describe her. And since much has evolved since her first day on the job, she took time to reflect on the many changes she has experienced during her career at Maryvale. 

“Back then, the kids needed a home. Now, they need treatment.”

Today, Mary still delivers smiles, but admits that building relationships with the children in her care proves to be more difficult. She is quick to add that Maryvale staff is responsive. “We will weather through the change.”

Mary’s advice to new employees? Stay determined. You are making a difference even though sometimes it doesn’t feel that way.

Being a life-long influence is her hallmark. She grins from ear to ear talking about former residents who are now engineers, nurses, teachers, therapists, airline attendants and one who owns an art gallery. Some of her former residents, now in their 40s, still invite her to birthday parties and weddings.

Drawing on her knowledge, passion and on-going trainings, Mary plans to prepare our children for life beyond the
gates of Maryvale.

So after three and half decades, what keeps her going? “Making a difference in these girls’ lives…hearing back from former residents.”