August 28, 2025
Dreaming Big
Celebrating a Season of Words & Wonders
This summer, our Words & Wonders Campaign gave youth and families a season full of joy, learning, and new experiences. From literacy adventures to arts exploration to sports and wellness, every activity was designed to inspire curiosity, build confidence, and strengthen relationships.
With the help of our mentors and our Family Success Team, youth discovered new passions, tried new things, and built skills that will carry them into the school year and beyond.
Kicking Off Summer with Family Fun
We started the summer by celebrating the end of the school year with a Family Movie Night featuring Lilo & Stitch.Youth, siblings, and caregivers came together to enjoy popcorn, laughter, and togetherness—a joyful start to a summer centered on connection and growth.
Adventures in Learning and Play
Our summer calendar was packed with fun and discovery. Youth took field trips to the aquarium, the Houston Zoo, the science museum, and even a glow-in-the-dark monster truck show. They explored creativity at places like the Sloomoo Institute, Urban Air, and Houston Interactive Aquarium. Through the Houston Library System, they dove into PJ Reading Time, the Make Music Day Festival, and even tackled reading challenges with stacks of books.
Camps That Sparked Confidence
Several of our youth spent time at summer camps that nurtured their unique talents. From the YMCA’s seven-week camp to football, basketball, and theatre camps, each opportunity provided structured learning, teamwork, and skill-building. One highlight was seeing a youth take the stage after joining the Ensemble Theater Young Performance Program, made possible through connections forged during a summer outing.
Family and Community Connections
Words & Wonders wasn’t just about the kids—it was also about their families. Caregivers came together for Care Connections, where they set personal goals, connected with resources, and built community with one another. These gatherings reinforced the idea that when families thrive, youth thrive too.
Self-Care and Wellness
We also created space for our girls and women mentors during a Self-Care Saturday, where they painted nails, made healthy snacks, practiced affirmations, and snapped polaroids together. These moments of joy and reflection gave them the chance to celebrate themselves while building resilience and self-love.
Looking Ahead
As the school year begins, we’re carrying the momentum of summer forward. We will provide nearly 60 youth with weekly individualized support through in-school engagement, after-school learning, and social-emotional development. Our Family Success Team will work with nearly 200 caregivers and siblings, connecting them to wraparound services that promote family stability, mental and physical health, and skill-building. With Friends walking beside them, our youth are ready to step into classrooms with confidence, curiosity, and the support they need to thrive.