Turning Pages for a Purpose: Teens Support Foster Youth Through Books

Shoutout to Reese Woods and the Olympic Heights Lions Chapter of STUDENTS Speak Up for Kids

While many service projects focus on younger children, the Olympic Heights Lions made it their mission to support an often overlooked group: teens in foster care. Collaborating with the Rho Kappa chapter at their school, the team launched a Young Adult Book Drive to provide engaging, age-appropriate books for older youth.

“Many projects contribute to younger children’s struggles, but older teens are often forgotten,” said Reese Woods. “Older teens within the foster system are often deprived of that entertainment others take for granted. I wish to do more projects that help them.”

Why This Matters

For teens in foster care, books can offer a sense of escape, connection, and identity. They can also provide moments of calm and comfort in the midst of transition. Access to meaningful stories helps teens feel seen and reminds them that their experiences matter.

One of the most meaningful parts of the project came when students from another club, many of whom were previously unfamiliar with the issue, eagerly contributed. That simple act of generosity reinforced the importance of raising awareness and building community around the cause.

Get Involved

“It is a wonderful opportunity to further your own skills while helping the community,” Reese shared.

Whether you are donating your favorite reads or helping organize a drive, small steps can have a lasting impact, especially for teens who need to know they are not forgotten.

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