Valarie Flores Fundraiser

It is with immense sadness we share that our Respite Connection family lost someone very special. Vivian Flores died tragically Thursday, June 2nd. Vivian is the daughter of one of our Supervisors, Reyna Arvizo. Vivian and her twin sister Valarie volunteered at many of our events over the past 6 years. They were always eager to help and so quick with warm, welcoming smiles. We will miss Vivian's kindness and generous, loving soul. It was such a treat when they stopped by the office, making sure to walk through the building to say hello to everyone (often with a warm hug).

We want to wrap our arms around Valarie and Reyna as tight as we can. Valarie witnessed an unimaginable loss that day. We have never met two sisters as close as they were. We hope to raise enough money to cover her senior year at Iowa State and other supports she will need. She is very special to us!

Vivian and Valarie supported others many many times over the years.  They volunteered with many of their peers that have a disability or special need, including Sparkle cheerleading at Valley High School in West Des Moines.  Our organization sponsors activities for the people we serve who have a disability and their families.  Both girls were there to help without ever being asked.  It's the kind of volunteerism that embraces the true spirit of giving back.  A volunteer that shows up to help and does not count their "hours" to receive recognition or meet a requirement from their school.  Just true givers.

Now it's time for us to give back to them.  These are hard working girls, often with multiple jobs paying their way through college.  We want Valarie to be able to finish her degree at Iowa State without having the added stress of paying for tuition and other expenses.  It's also our goal to raise funds to help with other therapeutic support services so that Valarie can feel free to seek whatever assistance she needs without the burden of covering those costs.  Valarie and her families' lives changed in a second.  Vivian was truly an innocent victim that happened to be walking into church at the wrong time.  Valarie was right there with her and we are so thankful she was not hurt physically.  Please make a donation to soften the impact of this horrific tragedy.  

It's time to show their family what "Iowa Nice" is.  We help those who need it as if they were our own family member.  Thank you for your support!  

With gratitude and a full heart,
The Respite Connection family