Honoring
Valrie Thompson
Valrie Thompson
By Diana Murillo,
Marketing Specialist
Valrie Thompson worked at Center for Human Services (CHS) for over 30 years, becoming a steady and beloved presence within the organization. She began as a Student Assistance Specialist in the Youth Services Department. She later transitioned to Hutton House, our teen shelter, where she spent the rest of her CHS career.
Looking back on her years of service, Valrie once shared, "I've been allowed to do good for others and learn something new every day – the two things I believe makes one happy and content." Throughout her time at CHS, she touched the lives of many, including those of clients and staff. She was a kind, funny, and caring individual, providing tough love for those who needed it most.
Valrie was a teacher for many across the agency. She readily shared her knowledge and gave advice on how to best serve youth, centering a people first approach.
Taryn Muralt, former Youth Services Director, worked closely with Valrie and said "Valrie was open, welcoming and willing to teach me. I will forever be grateful for that." She was a mentor who took people under her wing and guided them to be better versions of themselves.
Justine Wood, Youth Services Coordinator, reflected "I'm just lucky to have known her as a boss and mentor." Emily Webster, the Youth Navigation Center (YNC) Director, is grateful for all that Valrie taught her throughout the years and for helping transition knowledge from Hutton House to the YNC.
Valrie was very passionate and wanted her work at Hutton House to continue, even after her retirement. Naming the house that formerly held Hutton House, Thompson Place, was a natural transition, honoring the care and dedication Valrie poured into that home and anyone who entered it.
Valrie's commitment to service and the desire to help others continued post-retirement. She was very involved in her community, Oakdale, where she was a part of Soroptimist International of Oakdale Club. Justine, also a member of the club, says, "Valrie's lifelong commitment to nonprofit work will leave a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of knowing her."
Valrie's presence is deeply missed by those who knew her. She is remembered as a selfless, kind, and caring being who embraced others with open arms.
Emily reflects on the 20 years she knew Valrie, "I love Valrie a lot and I am so glad that I got to experience her in so many different ways and I wish she was still with us." Taryn added, "When I see tie–dyed clothing, Crocs, sunflowers and sweet peas, I will forever think of my beautiful friend, Valrie." Valrie's legacy is being authentic and showing up with love and ready to help others. Her teachings and passion for care continue to live on through the work of others.