Women's Storybook Project of Texas

10/08/2026

08/27/2026

Volunteer Spotlight: Lisa LeGuin Lawrence

Lisa’s first Women’s Storybook Project prison visit was in December, and there’s one memory she says she’ll never forget:

“Hearing multiple moms read ’Twas the Night Before Christmas to their children is something I will never forget.”

Since then, Lisa has seen how one story can travel far beyond the initial recording.

“I love hearing about when some of the older kids read their books to their younger siblings. I feel like there is a real butterfly effect happening.”

A mother shares a story. A child receives it. A sibling reads it again.

Those ripples of love and connection are at the heart of what we do.

Thank you, Lisa, for being part of them.

07/28/2026

Learning is even better when you're having fun!

Our team had a fantastic time at the 2026 Literacy Texas Annual Conference, connecting with literacy advocates from across the state, discovering new ideas, and celebrating the power of literacy to transform lives.

And, of course, we couldn't resist a stop at the photo booth! 😄📸

Pictured (L–R): Tim, Jill, Rosa, and Hadley.

Thank you, Literacy Texas, for an inspiring conference and for bringing together organizations committed to making a difference through literacy.

Literacy Texas

07/21/2026

An Evening of Connection, Community, and Impact

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Austin Reader's Circle Reception on July 16!

We are especially grateful to Development Committee member Pamela for opening her home and hosting such a beautiful evening.

Together, we celebrated the incredible impact our community makes by helping incarcerated mothers stay connected with their children through the power of books and storytelling.

It was wonderful to share program updates, connect with supporters, and celebrate the lives being touched because of your generosity.

Thank you for being part of our story.

07/19/2026

Women's Storybook Project Book Club | August Discussion

Join us for an engaging conversation as we explore the impact of maternal incarceration on children and families through a global lens.

🗓 Tuesday, August 18
🕡 6:30–8:30 PM CT

Before our discussion, please watch these two thought-provoking videos:

▶️ What Happens When Your Mum Goes to Prison?
▶️ Safeguarding Children When Sentencing Mothers

Both feature the experiences of mothers in the United Kingdom and examine how incarceration affects children, families, and the sentencing process. During our discussion, we'll compare the UK and U.S. systems and explore why maintaining the mother-child bond is so important. Research consistently shows that maternal incarceration can have lasting effects on children's well-being, education, and family stability.

🎧 Want to dive deeper?
Listen to the Women Beyond Walls podcast episode:
"Imprison a Mother, Imprison a Family" featuring Dr. Shona Minson.

📺 Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYLKW4aOhWE

📺 Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBY7hjsb-O0

🎧 Listen: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7eYuuTdA4Xm2ZLrlaaSZJm

📝 RSVP: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfkuC3nnc5qvM0-2xozU_azAtDcTHC3KKuHztnSXrYHO1yPOw/viewform

We hope you'll join us for this meaningful discussion about advocacy, family connection, and the importance of programs that help children stay connected to their mothers.

07/12/2026

Over the years, Jackie has poured so much care into Women's Storybook Project. She has supported our mission in so many ways. From serving as a Team Leader, to being on the Tech Committee, to speaking at our luncheons, and more.

Most recently, Jackie has been instrumental in helping us get WSP programming back up and running at the Henley Unit. She has taken on the Team Leader role at BOTH Henley and Plane this year.

She has offered Hadley so much guidance as she transitioned into the Programs Manager role and helps her keep the TDCJ Dayton units running smoothly. Thank you, Jackie, for all that you do!

07/03/2026

🎶 We're grateful for the support of the Bowen Family Foundation, whose generosity helps Women's Storybook Project of Texas continue connecting incarcerated mothers with their children through the power of books and storytelling.

Please take a few minutes to watch "Rain," the beautiful new music video from Wade Bowen . The song reflects on grief, healing, and hope—powerful themes that resonate with the families we serve.

🎥 Watch here: https://youtu.be/1YWQTkTEpYQ?si=onfumw0i-NQzkQYf

Thank you to the Bowen Family Foundation for supporting our mission and the families we serve. ❤️

06/30/2026

The power of a mother's voice.

Every recording, every book, every visit reminds us why this work matters.

"It has been such an amazing way to connect with my daughter. She is so young and just being able for her to hear my voice reading to her at any time has been such a blessing. I appreciate you ladies so much for coming and doing this for us. Y'all are a light in a dark place. Thank y'all!"

Moments like these inspire us every day. Thank you to our volunteers, donors, and supporters who help make these connections possible. Together, we're strengthening families one story at a time. ❤️

06/22/2026

✨ Fashion with a Purpose! ✨

Join us for Brunch, Bubbles, and Beautiful Styles on Saturday, June 27 at 10:00 AM and explore the beautiful Spring/Summer 2026 Cabi Collection while supporting the mission of Women's Storybook Project of Texas.

Enjoy:
🥂 Brunch & bubbles
👗 Personalized styling
☀️ Summer wardrobe inspiration
🛍️ New June arrivals
📦 Free shipping

A portion of all proceeds will benefit Women's Storybook Project of Texas, helping incarcerated mothers stay connected with their children through books, recorded stories, and the power of literacy.

A special thank you to Pam Ackert and Carrie Humphreys for hosting this wonderful event and supporting our mission.

📍 Location provided upon RSVP.

To RSVP, please contact Carrie Humphreys or send us a direct message for details.

Connecting children with their incarcerated mothers through the joy of literature.

06/19/2026

✨ Meet Rosa Ortiz — WSP's Volunteer Manager! ✨

We are so excited to introduce the newest member of the WSP team! Rosa brings a wealth of experience and a deeply rooted passion for community to her role — and we couldn't be more grateful to have her.

Drawing inspiration from creatives and activists alike, Rosa is committed to equipping the community with the support and resources needed to truly thrive. Her background spans early childhood education, homelessness services, and workforce development — a powerful combination that reflects the breadth of her dedication to people.

What drew her to WSP? The way we foster connection and a love of reading. And honestly, we think she fits right in.

Welcome to the team, Rosa! We are so glad you're here.