Eleven years ago, I was sitting in my hairstylists chair getting my hair colored. During our conversation, I shared that I wanted to get involved in a charity for children. I really wanted to help kids at some capacity, but was not sure where to go. She referred me to one go her friends that was involved in an organization called Casa Pacifica.
Casa Pacifica is a home for abused and neglected children. I met with Vicki Murphy, who is the Chief Advancment Officer and Director of Transitional Youth Services. In a nut shell, I fell in love with her selfless, giving heart and I wanted to learn more.
I have now known Vicki for 11 years, and every time I see her my admiration and reverence continues to grow. Vicki is a devoted mom, so very dedicated to her kids and her grandchildren and now for these children at Casa Pacifica. The love that this woman has for everyone, and I mean everyone is truly miraculous to witness. She gives in a way that is tireless and inspiring, creating a space for these kids at Casa to feel loved and safe. I can’t even imagine how emotionally taxing it must get for her, but she still smiles and laughs and she cries, and continues to give.
Vicki knows that in order to break the vicious cycle of abuse and neglect one has to reinforce the value and worthiness of the abused. They must feel loved and safe within that love. Vicki is able to do all of these things and more. There is a saying “it takes a village to raise a child”. She literally believes that and has taken it upon herself to begin this magnificent initiative.
I admire Vicki for her continued voice and strength of heart to fight for these kids, and to really be an advocate for teens and young adults who are so deserving of healing, safety and love.
