Hope in Action: Olive Crest Strengthens Families

Empowering lives with compassion and care

By Like Media Team

Located in the center of Bellevue, Olive Crest has been a champion in supporting children and families in crisis, committed to preventing child abuse through strengthening, equipping, and rebuilding lives. Olive Crest has been spreading its reach across Washington since 1999 and has locations in Bellevue, Tacoma, Silverdale, Vancouver, and Spokane. Each site is a significant part of filling the child welfare service shortfalls, providing hope and security. 

“Our vision is a strong family for every child,” shares Executive Director of the Pacific Northwest, Paul LaRose. In this vision, Olive Crest offers programs for over 3,000 children and families each year in the state of Washington. These programs include the Child Welfare Prevention Program, Foster Care, and the Independent Living Skills Program for teens leaving foster care. 

One story illustrates the transformational power of Olive Crest’s work. Riley had been in foster care since she was three and lived in poverty for years before she finally received a stable home. At 18, she enrolled in Olive Crest’s Independent Living Skills program, where she shared her fears of being left behind. Olive Crest was a constant support, and Riley reached the milestones she deserved: getting her high school diploma, first job, and a room of her own.

Riley’s journey didn’t end there. When her siblings’ adoptive family accepted her into their household when she was 19, she was able to rejoin her family after growing out of foster care. "After a life of maltreatment and abandonment, Riley’s dreams have now come true," LaRose shared.  

Olive Crest is made possible by partnerships with businesses, volunteers, and churches. Organizations like these fundraise, offer family-friendly programs, and provide mentorship and employment for young people. Their partnerships also bring financial support, host family-focused events, and create opportunities for youth mentorship and job placements. A dedicated volunteer spearheaded the launch of three Care Communities in Pierce County, providing ongoing support to foster families and organizing over 300 Christmas gifts for children in need. In 2025, this dedicated volunteer will launch two more Care Communities, expanding their reach even further.  

In 2024 alone, Olive Crest supported 2,043 children and families in the Pacific Northwest. Ninety-nine percent of children in their care found safety and stability—surpassing the national average of seventy percent. By 2030, the organization aims to serve 1.2 million children and families across the Western United States by expanding mental health services, new resource centers, and housing for teens and young adults.  

Olive Crest’s mission can be supported in various ways, whether through its mentor, volunteer programs, or Kids at Heart monthly giving program. For only $21 a month, donors can keep a child safe throughout the year. Locals can also get involved on event committees, sponsor donation drives, or become an Olive Crest family and host a safe haven for at-risk children.

To learn more, visit OliveCrest.org or call their Bellevue office at 425.462.1612. Together, we can change lives, one life at a time.

For more Non Profit Stories- here!