Sweet Smiles for Valentine’s: FAU Owls Deliver Love to Foster Youth

Shoutout to Ava Mansman and the FAU Owls Chapter of STUDENTS Speak Up for Kids

This Valentine’s Day, Ava Mansman and her fellow Owls from Florida Atlantic University put compassion into action by assembling and distributing thoughtful goodie bags for foster youth. With a focus on encouragement, motivation, and inspiration, this heartfelt project brought joy to 40 children, each receiving a bag filled with love and care.

But the impact didn’t stop there. About 20 student volunteers were educated about the challenges foster children face, with event flyers reaching roughly 300 people on social media. Through simple yet meaningful gestures like Valentine’s Day bags and birthday cards, Ava and her chapter are creating moments of happiness for youth who often go unnoticed.

"I think it is important for others to support foster youth because many do not know about the system and what the children go through," said Ava.

Why This Matters

Holidays can be especially tough for children in foster care. A small gift or card can go a long way in reminding them they’re seen, valued, and cared for. Projects like this give children something tangible to smile about and show them that there’s a community rooting for them.

Ava recalls a powerful experience from a holiday toy drive where she witnessed social workers handpick gifts for children: "I was able to see firsthand how I helped out - and it really hit home."

Get Involved

If you’re wondering whether it’s worth it, take it from Ava: "It’s an amazing cause and helps children in need!"

You can make a difference, too. Whether it’s through goodie bags, birthday cards, or simply spreading the word, every small act of kindness adds up.

#SpeakUpForKids #FosterCareSupport #ValentinesWithPurpose #ActsOfKindness #YouthVolunteering #STUDENTSSpeakUpforKids #FAUOwls #EncourageInspireMotivate #CommunityImpact #FAUHighSchool