G.R.O.W. Nominee Spotlight: Maribel “Mari” Tlaxca-Avila
Family Resource Specialist – Clark County, NV
We are proud to shine a spotlight on Maribel “Mari” Tlaxca-Avila, one of the very first team members to join our Las Vegas branch when it opened just one year ago. As a Family Resource Specialist providing ART/JC services, Mari has been instrumental in helping local families reconnect, rebuild trust, and prepare for successful reunification after challenging circumstances.
From the moment a case is assigned, Mari steps into each home with warmth, compassion, and cultural understanding. She works closely with parents to help them navigate the transition of their child returning home after spending nearly a year at Spring Mountain Youth Camp. Mari guides families in identifying their parenting strengths, setting expectations, and establishing routines, all while ensuring youth receive consistent support throughout the process.
Recently, Mari began working with a family facing an incredibly difficult chapter of loss, grief, and healing. The youth had spent nearly a year in detention following a tragic family incident involving his older sister, who had struggled with untreated mental illness. Over the past 60 days, Mari has supported the entire family as they continue to move forward together.
As the one-year remembrance of the sister’s passing approached, the family planned a small religious gathering at the gravesite. While the youth felt uncertain and overwhelmed by the idea of attending, the mother expressed how important it was for all her children to be present. Mari brought the family together to talk openly about their feelings, fears, and what everyone needed to feel supported.
Mari supported the family by helping them navigate a difficult anniversary service honoring the sister’s memory. The youth asked Mari to attend the service with them so they would have a trusted and supportive presence. Mari agreed, assuring them that they could signal her at any time if they needed to step away.
At the service, from a quiet place at the back, the youth was finally able to begin processing their grief. With Mari by their side and the support of their siblings, they were able to cry, reflect, and honor the sister they loved. The moment became an important step in healing for the entire family.
On the ride home, they quietly said, “Thank you, Ms. Mari. I feel so much better.”
Supporting a family through grief is never easy, yet Mari approached the situation with strength, empathy, and unwavering dedication. She embodied the JusticeWorks commitment to doing “Whatever It Takes” — providing both cultural respect to the mother and a trusted bond with the youth during one of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.
The following day, Mari took time to debrief and care for herself — a reminder that those who support others must also care for their own well-being.