Wayne County, MI — [October 2, 2025] — Vista Maria, in partnership with McAllister & Quinn, is thrilled to announce the award of a significant federal grant from the Administration for Children & Families (ACF), supporting the launch of the RespectED (Respect + Education) program. This transformative initiative will empower 585 system-involved youth over five years, providing evidence-based workshops on healthy relationships, communication, sexual health, parenting, and workforce readiness.
“This grant will allow us to reach hundreds of young people with the tools and support they need to build healthy, successful futures. The impact on our community will be profound, as we work to break cycles of trauma and foster stronger families throughout Wayne County,” said Kathy Regan, CEO of Vista Maria.
The RespectED program will be delivered in community-based settings, offering interactive lessons, meals, transportation assistance, and incentives to encourage participation and completion. The program also includes domestic violence recognition and prevention training, aiming to reduce youth pregnancy, intimate partner violence, and child abuse while fostering healthier relationships and family dynamics.
“We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to support Vista Maria in their vital work. This partnership exemplifies what can be achieved when organizations come together to invest in the future of our youth and our communities,” said Tori Foster, Managing Director at McAllister & Quinn.
With annual funding of $415,566.20 over five years, the RespectED program will disrupt cycles of trauma and poverty, creating a foundation for stronger families and communities in Wayne County.
About Vista Maria
Founded in 1883, Vista Maria is a nonprofit organization dedicated to delivering innovative care, education, and support to vulnerable youth and families. Vista Maria’s mission is to foster restorative relationships and deliver innovative care, treatment, and education so that vulnerable youth and families believe in their worth, heal and build the skills for success. Learn more at https://www.vistamaria.org/about-us.
About McAllister & Quinn
McAllister & Quinn is a leading consulting firm specializing in grant strategy and federal funding support for nonprofits, educational institutions, and public agencies. The firm partners with clients to secure resources that drive transformative change.
Media Contacts:
Michelle Fellows, Managing Director, McAllister & Quinn
mfellows@jm-aq.com | https://jm-aq.com/
Jessica Marcetti, Senior Manager of Community Engagement, Vista Maria
JMarcetti@VistaMaria.org | https://www.vistamaria.org/