Gretchen Olson serves as the co-chair on the board of directors for the Hands & Words Are Not for Hurting Project®. Gretchen is also the author of the young adult novel Joyride (Boyds Mill Press).  She lives with her husband on their blueberry farm in Amity, Oregon. 

Book Awards

  • Kentucky Bluegrass Award
  • Borders Original Voice
  • Oregon Battle of the Books Selection
  • ABA Book Sense Children’s Pick
  • University of Oregon’s Community Award was given to Gretchen Olson for her work with the Hands & Words Are Not For Hurting Project®.