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YOUTH Beyond Words

Awendaw Regional Outreach Center (AROC) is proud to announce the launch of its in-house library as part of its transformative Youth Beyond Words initiative. This new space is more than just a collection of books—it is a living archive of resistance, imagination, and empowerment tailored for AROC youth and their allies navigating the intersections of identity, culture, and justice.

Youth Beyond Words was born from a deep recognition: that young people in our communities are not only impacted by systems of oppression but are also powerful agents of change. Through storytelling, literature, and creative expression, they reclaim narratives that have long been distorted or erased. The in-house library is a physical manifestation of this vision—a place where youth can gather, read, reflect, and build community through the written word.

The library will feature a curated selection of books, zines, and multimedia resources centering Arab, SWANA (Southwest Asian and North African), Black, Indigenous, and other marginalized voices. From poetry collections and graphic novels to political theory and diasporic memoirs, the shelves will reflect the complexity and richness of our lived experiences. Importantly, the library will also include works produced by youth themselves—writing, art, and media created through AROC’s workshops and programs—ensuring that their voices are not only heard but preserved.

This initiative is grounded in the belief that literacy is liberation. In a time when educational censorship and cultural erasure are on the rise, creating a space where youth can access radical, affirming, and challenging texts is an act of resistance. The library will serve as a hub for reading circles, writing workshops, film screenings, and intergenerational dialogues, fostering a culture of learning that is rooted in solidarity and self-determination.

AROC’s in-house library also aims to dismantle barriers to access. Many youth in our communities face systemic obstacles to education and cultural resources. By offering a free, welcoming, and intentionally curated space, we hope to nurture a love of learning and a sense of belonging. The library will be open during AROC’s regular programming hours, with dedicated time for youth-only access to ensure safety and autonomy.

Youth Beyond Words is not just a program—it is a movement. It affirms that young people have the right to tell their own stories, to read stories that reflect their truths, and to imagine new futures. The in-house library is a cornerstone of this movement, and we invite our community to support, donate, and participate in its growth.

Together, we are building a sanctuary of stories. A place where words are not just read—they are lived, shared, and transformed into action.

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