Who we are
Students who believe every child deserves a bookshelf.
Books for Buddies was founded by high schoolers who saw a gap — and decided to fill it.
Our story
It started with one book drive.
In the fall of 2025, a small group of high school students organized a book drive to help local Title 1 schools. They expected to collect a few boxes. They collected over 400 books in two weeks.
That moment made something clear: communities want to help — they just need a way to do it. So we built one. Books for Buddies became a formal nonprofit in 2025, and we haven't stopped since.
Today, we run drives throughout the year, and put books directly into the hands of kids who need them most. Every single part of this organization is run by students.
Access for all
Every child deserves books, regardless of their zip code or family income.
Student ownership
We believe young people can lead real change. Our org is built, run, and grown by students.
Community first
We work with schools, families, and local donors — not around them.
Radical transparency
100% of book donations go directly to students. We publish our impact numbers every semester.
Meet the team
We're a group of high school students who care deeply about literacy and equity.
Breelle Wei
President & Co-founder
Senior at McLean High. Manages logistics for all book drives and school deliveries.
Avery Wei
Vice President & Co-Founder
Junior at Bishop O'Connell. Builds relationships with partner schools and coordinates donations.
Tommy Helfrich
Director of Community Outreach
Senior at McLean High. Coordinates with schools, businesses, and community organizations.
Alexa Lappe
Director of Book Donations
Junior at Bishop O'Connell. Manages collecting, sorting, and distributing books to Title I elementary schools.
Want to join us?
We're always looking for student volunteers, adult advisors, and community partners. Whether you can give an hour or a semester, there's a place for you.