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Stories of Hope

in Action

Every family we serve has a unique journey. Explore real stories

of transformation across Maryvale’s programs.

Through care, connection, and community, Maryvale’s programs help families and individuals transform their lives, proving what’s possible when support meets resilience.

A Foundation for Their Children’s Future

After aging out of foster care, sisters Leilani and Sanaye found themselves facing housing instability while raising young children. With limited support and growing responsibilities, they were determined to break the cycle of uncertainty and create something different for their families.

At Maryvale’s Seton House, they received temporary housing, life skills training, financial literacy education, parenting support, and access to mental health services. Their children enrolled in Maryvale’s early childhood education program, gaining the stability and consistency every child deserves.

Today, both sisters have secured permanent housing and continue prioritizing education and stability for their children.

Reclaiming Independence

Dorothy experienced years of instability, homelessness, and substance use, ultimately losing custody of her daughter. She carried deep shame and uncertainty about whether she could rebuild her life.

Through Seton House, Dorothy received safe housing, parenting classes, financial education, and supportive services that helped her regain stability and confidence. With consistent guidance and accountability, she began setting goals, rebuilding healthy routines, and believing in her ability to change her future.

Today, Dorothy has regained full custody of her daughter, secured permanent housing, and works full-time while pursuing her GED.

Overcoming the Odds

Joseph struggled with PTSD, unresolved trauma, and substance use at a young age. His academic performance declined, his relationships suffered, and his future felt uncertain. Without intervention, he was at risk of continuing down a path of instability.

Through Maryvale’s community-based mental health services, Joseph received consistent therapy and structured support tailored to his needs. He learned healthy coping strategies, began processing his trauma in a safe environment, and rebuilt trust with the adults supporting him.

Joseph returned to school with renewed focus and determination. He graduated from high school and is now pursuing college to become a social worker, inspired to help others overcome the very challenges he once faced.

Help Create the Next Success Story

Every success story begins with access to care, stability, and opportunity. Your generosity makes transformation possible for children, youth, and families across Los Angeles County.

You showed up – and we are so grateful.

What we imagined as a small, intimate gathering became a full afternoon reception with community members, neighbors, partners, former residents, Assembly members, City Council members, and so many familiar faces who have championed this work alongside us. Our Rosemead campus came alive, and it was everything.

170 years of service deserves to be celebrated with the people who make it possible. Thursday reminded us exactly who those people are.

To everyone who joined us: thank you. To those who couldn’t make it: we missed you, and we can’t wait to see you at our next event.

Were you there? Drop your favorite moment from the day in the comments, we’d love to hear it. And we’d love to stay connected professionally, find us on LinkedIn and share your handle below.

#maryvale #170ForHope #losangeles #worldcup #SanGabrielValley

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We won FIVE! ✨

Maryvale has been named a 2026 San Gabriel Valley’s Best winner by readers of the Pasadena Star-News, San Gabriel Valley Tribune, and Whittier Daily News across five categories:

⭐ Best Counseling Company
⭐ Best Nonprofit Organization
⭐ Favorite Workplace
⭐ Favorite Daycare Center
⭐ Favorite Preschool

This recognition belongs to every family who trusted us, every staff member who shows up with dedication, and every community member who voted. 

Thank you for believing in our mission.

#MaryvaleStrong #SGVBest #ReadersChoice #SanGabrielValley #Maryvale

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A grandmother raising her two grandchildren alone. A rent increase. A call from school about behavior. A missed doctor’s appointment because there was no one to ask for a ride. 

Grief she hasn’t had time to name. From the outside, it looks like five different problems. From the inside, it’s one family trying to hold everything at once. That’s the gap whole-person care is built to close: one coordinated team working across housing, behavioral health, and community resources instead of five separate doors.

New on the blog: how Enhanced Care Management and Connections by Maryvale are helping San Gabriel Valley families find stability, not just survive the week.

Read the full story, link in bio.

#WholePersonCare #SanGabrielValley #worldcup  #Maryvale #losangeles

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We asked our staff who they’re rooting for in the World Cup. The results were NOT subtle. ⚽🔥

The tournament kicks off TODAY (Mexico vs. South Africa), and it’s the biggest one ever. 48 teams. 104 matches. 16 cities. 3 host countries.

And our staff? They answered FAST. No hedging. No “well, I like a few teams.” Just proud, immediate answers about where their families are from and who they’ll be cheering for.

Swipe to see which country took the crown in our poll.

Who are YOU rooting for? Drop your flag in the comments. 🇺🇸🇨🇦🇲🇽

#Maryvale170 #worldcup2026 #fifaworldcup #worldcupfever #sgv

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This interview originally aired on June 1, 2025 on the @CaliforniaLeaders podcast with host Chris Luna and produced by Los Angeles Leaders Workshops, which advances leadership through immersive learning experiences.

We’re proud to re-share this inspiring conversation as part of Maryvale’s 170th anniversary year, celebrating leadership, compassion, and legacy. 

In this episode, Steve Gunther, President and CEO of Maryvale, joins Christopher Luna on the Los Angeles Leaders Podcast to share his remarkable journey of leadership, faith, and transformation, and what it takes to lead a 170-year-old social service organization while honoring its mission and legacy.

As the head of one of Los Angeles’ oldest and most respected nonprofits, Steve has guided Maryvale through some of its most significant milestones, including strategic program transitions, the expansion of housing services for mothers and children, and the continued growth of mental health and early education programs.

With humility and servant leadership at the core of his approach, Steve reflects on the values that have shaped his 40-year career and how honoring tradition while embracing innovation continues to move Maryvale forward.

Under his guidance, Maryvale remains a place of hope offering early childhood education, housing for families in need, mental health and substance use services that strengthen lives across Los Angeles County. 

About This Episode
This interview originally appeared on the Los Angeles Leaders Podcast, hosted by Christopher Luna in June 2025, 

Connect with Los Angeles Leaders/ @CaliforniaLeaders 
Website: www.LosAngelesLeaders.com 
Instagram: @losangelesleaders
LinkedIn: Los Angeles Leaders
X (Twitter): @lalaedersx
Email: cluna@losangelesleaders.com

💙 Connect with Maryvale
Website: www.maryvale.org 
Instagram: @Maryvale_losangeles
Facebook: MaryvaleCA
LinkedIn: Maryvale


#Maryvale #LosAngelesLeaders #Leadership #CommunityImpact #ServantLeadership #FaithInAction #NonprofitLeadership #TransformingLives #ImprovingLivesSince1856  #CaliforniaLeadersPodcast #LAorphanage #MaryvaleCA

This interview originally aired on June 1, 2025 on the @CaliforniaLeaders podcast with host Chris Luna and produced by Los Angeles Leaders Workshops, which advances leadership through immersive learning experiences.

We’re proud to re-share this inspiring conversation as part of Maryvale’s 170th anniversary year, celebrating leadership, compassion, and legacy.

In this episode, Steve Gunther, President and CEO of Maryvale, joins Christopher Luna on the Los Angeles Leaders Podcast to share his remarkable journey of leadership, faith, and transformation, and what it takes to lead a 170-year-old social service organization while honoring its mission and legacy.

As the head of one of Los Angeles’ oldest and most respected nonprofits, Steve has guided Maryvale through some of its most significant milestones, including strategic program transitions, the expansion of housing services for mothers and children, and the continued growth of mental health and early education programs.

With humility and servant leadership at the core of his approach, Steve reflects on the values that have shaped his 40-year career and how honoring tradition while embracing innovation continues to move Maryvale forward.

Under his guidance, Maryvale remains a place of hope offering early childhood education, housing for families in need, mental health and substance use services that strengthen lives across Los Angeles County.

About This Episode
This interview originally appeared on the Los Angeles Leaders Podcast, hosted by Christopher Luna in June 2025,

Connect with Los Angeles Leaders/ @CaliforniaLeaders
Website: www.LosAngelesLeaders.com
Instagram: @losangelesleaders
LinkedIn: Los Angeles Leaders
X (Twitter): @lalaedersx
Email: cluna@losangelesleaders.com

💙 Connect with Maryvale
Website: www.maryvale.org
Instagram: @Maryvale_losangeles
Facebook: MaryvaleCA
LinkedIn: Maryvale


#Maryvale #LosAngelesLeaders #Leadership #CommunityImpact #ServantLeadership #FaithInAction #NonprofitLeadership #TransformingLives #ImprovingLivesSince1856 #CaliforniaLeadersPodcast #LAorphanage #MaryvaleCA

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YouTube Video VVU3a0RycnVLVXlPallpbUpjaUo1Ym5BLktORm1HekF5SVFv

Leading with Faith & Vision: Steve Gunther on Transforming Maryvale's Legacy.

Maryvale October 13, 2025 9:23 pm

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