“…a message of hope, especially for those who have felt alone, unknown, and forgotten.”

USA Ambassador Ms. 2021 Jamerika Haynes-Lewis speaks from a knowing heart. Jamerika spent 13 years in the Washington state child welfare system, conquering countless barriers before claiming the pageantry stage. Using her compelling story, Jamerika will address the urgency in supporting foster and adoptive children - particularly those of color - to sustain hope, cultivate dreams, and to access mental health education and resources. Attendees will hear about favorite library titles that inspired or comforted Jamerika on her childhood journey through care, and leave with a booklist highlighting healing and uplifting materials for today's kids.

April 1, 2022 11 am-Noon, Register here [Zoom link TBD]