PHOENIX – In honor of its 50th anniversary, Valle del Sol has unveiled a new mural located at their clinic on 17th Street and Indian School Road. The mural, named Esperanza, was designed and executed by local artist Emily Costello. 

“We are very excited to have had the opportunity to work with Emily, a local artist and an alum from our Hispanic Leadership Institute,” said Valle del Sol CEO, Carmen Heredia. “Emily is a great community leader and someone who understands the value Valle del Sol brings to the families it serves. Her mural is emblematic of the Latino community and a great representation of Valle del Sol’s 50-year history in the community. We hope it will bring joy and inspiration to the people who encounter it during their daily routines.” 

For 50 years Valle del Sol has consistently worked hand in hand with the communities they serve in order to better meet their needs. Since the beginning, they have focused on providing behavioral health services and the organization continues to evolve as community needs change, including during the current pandemic. Today, Valle del Sol offers a full portfolio of community-based programs, provides school-based services at over 50 Phoenix area schools, and served nearly 20,000 patients in 2020 alone. 

“Valle del Sol has a special place in my heart,” said Costello, who is also a co-owner of Mucho Más Art Studio in Phoenix. “Not only do they provide behavioral and other human services for our community, which are vital, especially in our underserved community. But they also provide leadership opportunities.” 

Costello explains that Esperanza, which means hope in Spanish, is a colorful representation of the Latino community and encompasses many of the values Valle del Sol embodies. The Ollin, an Aztec symbol, means transformation, wisdom and strength. In indigenous cultures, the equal sided cross represents balance. The flaming heart symbolizes compassion, and the healing hand represents healing and protection. All these items showcase the services Valle del Sol has provided for the community since its inception in 1970. 

Costello worked closely with representatives of Valle del Sol to capture the essence of the non-profit. She hopes the mural will inspire any community member because of the role women play in every culture and “because no matter where you come from or who you are . . . you can appreciate the beauty” of the artwork. This is Costello’s first mural after becoming an artist 15 years ago. 



In addition to the mural, Valle del Sol will continue to offer programing and events throughout the year to commemorate its 50 years of service to the Phoenix community. The 30 feet wide by 32 feet tall mural is located at 4117 N. 17th St., Phoenix, AZ 85016.