Coloring the Season with Kindness: Wildcats Speak Up for Foster Youth
Shoutout to Isabella Lopez-Merlos and the Royal Palm Beach Wildcats Chapter of STUDENTS Speak Up for Kids
This spring, the Royal Palm Beach Wildcats turned creativity into connection with their project Speak Up During Spring. Led by Isabella Lopez-Merlos, this joyful initiative featured chalk art, handmade friendship bracelets, and playful April Fools’ Day cards—each crafted with the intention of spreading encouragement, laughter, and inclusion.
With over 200 foster youth positively impacted and more than 50 individuals reached through outreach and awareness efforts, the project brought light and care to children across Palm Beach County. A total of 35 students participated, contributing 16 hours of service, including 4 hours per participant.
“This experience is inspiring as we are trying to provide smiles and feelings of inclusion for every kid in Palm Beach County,” Isabella shared. “I think this is extremely important, especially as we never know what is going on in someone’s life or on a day-to-day basis.”
Why This Matters
A chalk message on a sidewalk. A friendship bracelet wrapped with care. A silly card meant to brighten someone’s day. These small touches make a big difference in helping foster youth feel seen, supported, and included, especially during times when encouragement matters most.
A Moment That Made a Difference
For Isabella, it was the simple, creative acts that stood out: “Writing messages and creating bracelets” became a meaningful way to directly connect with those who would receive them.
Get Involved
“It is one of the most wonderful organizations that someone can join,” Isabella said. “Not only do you gain experience, but we also learn about the true meaning of community service and how each person’s individual impact matters.”
From colorful chalk to heartfelt bracelets, Speak Up During Spring proved that kindness can bloom anywhere - especially when shared with intention.
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