2023 Progress

SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA

American Press Volunteer of Year

Helping out at Hobo Hotel has brought Arlene Avery much joy

By Emily Burleigh American Press

Beloved local volunteer Arlene Avery, 74, sought out altruistic work after her retirement from the federal government 16 years ago.

It was important she found volunteer work that was meaningful and vital for the community. Soon after she began her search for fulfilling volunteer work, Carol Cain answered her call.

Alongside Collie Rouyer, Cain co-founded the Hobo Hotel Spankey Halfway House for Cats and Kittens in 1999, a local no-kill cat rescue shelter that has now been in operation for 24 years. She met Avery at an event at the Lake Charles Civic Center, and the rest was history.

“I was interested and said I would think about it,” Avery explained. “Carol didn’t let me think too long … 16 years later I am still involved.”

After accepting Cain’s offer, Avery realized she had found a calling. Working with animals after her retirement was a natural step, Avery realized.

“I wanted to be somewhere where I felt like I was contributing to something worthwhile … I alway had a love for animals. It felt right.”

Since the beginning of her time at Hobo Hotel, there has been plenty of joy for Avery to experience. From the people she works alongside, to the young children that just met their best friend to the furry best friends themselves, there is always something happy to experience.

“I have gotten to see the joy on people’s faces when they have adopted the perfect cat and met so many beautiful people, all of whom have the same love of animals as I do, who give so much to Hobo Hotel with their donations, time and help.”

There is nothing more fulfilling than witnessing a sick kitten reach a full recovery, Avery believes.

“It is a pleasure to see a tiny little kitten who comes to us very ill, and

Publisher’s Note:

Arlene Avery — a 16-year volunteer with the Hobo Hotel Spankey Halfway House for Cats and Kittens — with a feline friend.

Special to the American Press

Deciding the theme for our inaugural Progress magazine was an easy choice: People who make a difference. The individuals who live, work and contribute in a community are the guiding forces that help it grow, make it unique and we are fortunate in Southwest Louisiana to have so many individuals who are willing to go above and beyond to help make this a better place to live.

The individuals recognized — as voted on by our readers — are all difference makers. They all use their most valuable resource, time, to contribute. They put their heart into what they do without seeking recognition, financial rewards or accolades — they do it because they want to make a difference.

gets through the bad times and survives,” she explained. “We can say ‘We did that,’ and ‘If it weren’t for us, this little buddy wouldn’t be going to his forever home.’ ”

Much like the felines brought to the shelter, the greatest benefit that Avery has gained from Hobo Hotel is healing. She has survived three bouts of cancer since becoming involved with Hobo Hotel. She contributes her healing to the support of the shelter’s community and, of course, the kittens.

Things aren’t always so joyful, however. The hardest lesson Avery has learned is that not every rescue can be helped. “The hardest part of volunteering is telling people we cannot rescue their homeless kitten/cat because we are at full capacity,” she said. “Ms. Carol always said, ‘We can’t save them all, but be grateful for the ones we do save.’ ”

After 16 years of commitment to Hobo Hotel, Avery has fostered 253 felines and adopted two. She has learned

and adopted Hobo Hotel’s five main principles: prevention, rescue, healing, adoption and education.

As a non-profit organization, Hobo Hotel relies on fundraisers, donations and community support. Avery ensures the shelter receives the funding it needs by serving as the chair of fundraising events. This year, she chaired two successful events: Sweet Art Silent Auction and the Cats and Aliens show.

She has also learned that there is a bit of strategy that goes into pairing cats with potential owners. “It is so rewarding when you have adopted a kitten/cat to a forever home, because, like us, we all have different personalities and so do cats … some prefer an active cat, while others want a laid back cat.”

In 2022, Hobo Hotel found “forever homes” for 401 cats and kittens, and spayed and neutered 791. Since the shelter’s opening in 1999, 5,081 cats have been adopted and 8,396 have been spayed and neutered.

Many of you know the volunteers we have highlighted in Progress. Let them know how appreciative you are for what they do.

I also want to mention that there are many others we have written stories about in the past year who have made and continue to make outstanding contributions, but we did not have space to highlight each individual. All are appreciated and hopefully their stories resonated with you.

Finally, many organizations and companies in Progress were asked to mention some things they do to help support the community or contribute in some way to make Southwest Louisiana a better place to live. We appreciate the individuals within those organizations who have gone above and beyond.

It is great to care and we can use more of that, but to put that care into action is commendable! Thanks again to all of our incredible volunteers. — Dan

Alexandra Williams: Parents her greatest influences

By Marlisa Harding American Press

Alexandra Williams, a Lake Charles native, has devoted much of her life to serving young people in her local church. She credited her parents as one of her greatest influences for volunteerism.

“Watching my parents— they’ve always had a very active volunteer life at church. They ingrained in me to serve in any capacity that I can.”

Student ministry, high school and college, has always been a big part of her volunteer work. In addition to attending youth group as a teen, she made time to help serve others.

“My dad started a college group when I was a junior or senior and I started helping him because a lot of the people came from my school.”

Even when she moved away to college in Baton Rouge, Williams priori-

tized serving in a Christian community where she played the piano and led a small group.

“It was important to me to stay

connected in a deep community of believers. College is really a place where your faith is tested as your own or if it was just your parents.”

When she moved back to Lake Charles her commitment to Christian service continued alongside her dad and local college students. The experience in Baton Rouge was valuable, but Williams said there was something special about returning home to serve many of the people she grew up with.

“It was more like family. I had more invested and more at stake because of the deeper relationships. I think it helped our group grow, too, because visitors come in, see how close we are and want to join that.”

Now as an adult, Williams still finds time to continue working with college students and the high school she teaches every day as a private school teacher. She has an especially unique bond with her students, she said.

While teaching is part of her job, remaining available during lunch and after hours to lend a compassionate ear to her students is a service she gladly offers to each of her students. “I’m younger and that makes me more approachable to them. It’s because we have shared experiences that weren’t so far away from me.”

Whether it’s teen years or young adulthood, Williams said the sacrifice to invest in young people’s faith is well worth the time.

“As a teenager, it’s very pivotal years to developing a Biblical worldview, a foundational relationship with Jesus and protecting morals. Then when you get to college, you’re rocked by peer pressure but hopefully you’ve got your foundation and reasons for why you believe. You’re finding your footing as an adult believer and applying your faith to adult scenarios you never experienced before.”

Roishetta Sibley Ozane: No one falls through the cracks

By Marlisa Harding American Press

Roishetta Sibley Ozane, co-founder of the Vessel Project, is committed to ensuring that no one falls through the cracks when in need. In less than a year, Ozane has organized a win-

ter-weather drive, a summer feeding program, a back-to-school drive, a Thanksgiving luncheon, a community Christmas party and helped case manage for countless residents grappling with hurricane recovery, homelessness and basic poverty.

See OZANE, 5

Alexandra Williams

MacKenzie

Forrester: Gives solace, support to other single moms

By Marlisa Harding American Press

MacKenzie Forrester, a Lake Charles native, believes everything happens for a reason. The proud mother of two has determined not to be bound by the stereotype of being a single mother, an outlook that has been strengthened by the support group she’s been a part of for the last three years.

“Sometimes people think certain things about being a single mother — some things good but some things bad. But no matter our story, there is something beautiful inside of every mother who is determined to live a productive and positive life for their children.”

When Forrester entered the support group, she said she could see herself in many of the stories the women told. “I realized that truly I wasn’t alone. Others also struggled with co-parenting or child support or just feeling like they needed help. I realized we are all sort of part of a bigger family of motherhood.”

One theme Forrester noticed in the support group was the need for single moms to have a lifeline and backup when childcare falls through for necessary things like appointments, work or family emergencies. “It’s (childcare)

See FORRESTER, 6

PROGRESS OZANE

Continued from 4

“I’m a single mom of six. I’ve needed help and was turned down so I wanted to create a space to help people in a nonjudgmental way,” she said.

Ozane said all of her life’s experiences have prepared her for this moment to step out into her own organization. She said her work at a local women’s shelter first opened her eyes to the many needs and obstacles that individuals face when dealt a difficult hand of cards, she said.

“People think if you’re homeless you should be willing to do whatever it takes to get that help. But, if you’re at the point of feeling like you have nothing and nobody plus you have to walk some sort of tightrope, that can be the turning point in someone giving up.”

Vessel Project’s name comes from the willingness to give and serve with as few requirements as possible. “People donate and we just give it right back to the community. We’re simply vessels.”

She said working as a community health worker, her time with Americorp traveling the country and seeing a diversity of needs, meeting post-Hurricane Katrina needs for evacuees and working as paraprofessional with the public school system all served as building blocks of compassion and inspiration for her current work with Vessel Project.

“All of those things that had happened in my life throughout those different life experiences, good and bad, were preparing me.”

The 2021 winter storm was the beginning of her formalized work. When Ozane heard of the historic low

temperatures, she said all she could think about were people living in uninhabitable homes or in tents.

Out of her own pocket, she began paying for hotel rooms. “We had just gotten our stimulus check and I always try to do something for someone else when I get things like that because it’s money I didn’t already count into my budget.”

Ozane knew there were plenty of residents still left to get out of the cold and began reaching out to other organizations. She worked with Josh Lewis, a 2021 mayoral candidate, the

Special to the American Press

Cajun Navy and leveraged the power of social media to feed and house many in need.

“People started sending us money on Cash App, Venmo and offering free rooms at L’Auberge or Coushatta — I was like ‘Oh my God, our community is the best in the world!’ ”

Over the course of the winter storm, Vessel Project paid for 55 hotel rooms, provided three meals a day plus gallons of water and ensured that community members left with a backpack of whatever else they needed including items like baby supplies and tents.

Keelan, Keondrea, Roishetta, Kristian, Kamea, Kash and Kami.

PROGRESS FORRESTER

Continued from 5

a simple thing, really, but it can be hard to come by when it’s just you. Or especially with COVID and school is suddenly closed but you have to go work, who do you call? Some people have extra family and friends but some of us don’t,” she said.

Forrester realized her job skills and the ability to work from home on her own schedule could be used to benefit more than just herself. She began offering her home and time as a last-minute, free-of-charge resource when other women in the group were in a bind with childcare.

“At first, honestly, I was nervous it would get out of hand or that people would take the option for granted. But that’s been what is so beautiful about this: We’re

all moms,” she said.

“We each understand how precious home and space and time is and so no one has ever taken the option for granted. In fact, now we’ve set up something like a phone tree where if I can’t help, I’ve got several other moms who are ready to step in as well.”

What started out as a service to others actually ended up being a great blessing to Forrester, as well, she added.

“I knew from personal experience that offering myself to the women would be helpful to them but I had no idea how much I needed it to. There’s something special and fulfilling about living outside of yourself and doing something purely for the benefit of someone else.”

Olivia Delano: Westlake teen on a mission to ‘restore’ community

By Marlisa Harding American Press

Olivia Delano, a student at Westlake High School, used her leadership in the Future Business Leaders of America club as an opportunity to literally “restore” the community. As part of the club’s state competition, Westlake FBLA hosted the “Restore the Community” on the school’s football field.

Restoration is more than ongoing hurricane repairs; it encompasses many of the tragedies of the past three years with a special focus on the region’s mental health.

“It all started with COVID. Everybody is still messed up,” she said.

Speaking of friends who

had dance recitals and sports activities canceled, “Their whole lives came crashing down,” she said. “Then after we got back into school the hurricanes hit and that was just another thing on top of it.”

In addition to the global

and regional tragedies students and adults alike have had to endure, the Westlake student body also endured the loss of a classmate.

“We had a loss in our own community and it was very impactful. But our community really came together in support of the family with wrist bands, the cheer team wore shirts, the football team brought out this jersey and dedicated it to his number. All of those things inspired me to pick mental health for our project.”

Featuring a live band, speakers from youth organizations, churches and local mental health agencies,

See DELANO, 8

Olivia Delano

PROGRESS DELANO

Continued from 6

“Restore the Community” offered practical and spiritual resources to help bring wholeness to all of Southwest Louisiana, she said.

“We’re going to be focusing on the well-being of people mentally, physically and spiritually — reach people on all those different levels.”

Equally important to the project, Delano said, is the entry fee generated funds for The Vessel Project, co-founded by Roishetta Ozane.

“They’re (Vessel Project) fulfilling the needs of people in our community. She (Ozane) raises money and helps people that reach out to her. I just really believe in and admire what she’s doing.”

Bringing hope to a struggling community is paramount, she said.

Thomas Tran-Johnson: Suicide hotline volunteer

By Marlisa Harding American Press

Thomas Tran-Johnson never expected that his own life’s tragedy would allow him to help others. Having lost a sibling to suicide when he was a teen, Tran-Johnson initially believed nothing good could ever come from the loss.

“I mean, ‘How could it?’ After all, this was my brother,” he recalled.

A chance encounter in college, however, slowly began to change his perception. “We were required to complete a certain number of volunteer hours and honestly I wasn’t that thrilled about it. I was in such a low place already.”

Tran-Johnson chose what he thought would be an

“easy” volunteer assignment — manning a suicide hotline. “Yeah, it’s a little ironic. But honestly, I felt somewhat numb and figured, ‘At least I won’t have to leave my house.’ ”

As he began the threeweek training, something

remarkable began happening, he said.

“Even though it was a few years since my brother’s passing, I realized that there was obviously a lot I was still holding onto but mostly it was guilt. Like, I had missed something.”

The training opened his eyes to the fact that the factors leading up to suicide vary tremendously and that the family’s tragedy wasn’t his fault.

“Obviously the hotline isn’t about me. But it certainly did help me heal and then sort of pay it forward,” he said.

“By taking the time to simply listen and be a compassionate ear, I feel like I am making the world a better place and I’m definitely help-

ing another family avoid the tragedy we endured.”

Tran-Johnson volunteers for the hotline at least 10 hours a month but it can be more depending on the time of the year, he said. “The holidays definitely create a strain on the hotline in terms of who’s available to volunteer and the number of people who are calling in. Holidays are tough for nearly everyone but especially people who are already struggling with their mental health.”

No matter how many people he impacts on the line, Tran-Johnson said he always considers it a tribute to his late brother. “This work, the time, the sacrifice it takes, it’s all for him. I think he’s somewhere proud and smiling.”

‘Obviously the hotline isn’t about me. But it certainly did help me heal and then sort of pay it forward.’

Thomas Tran-Johnson Suicide hotline volunteer

I n 2 0 2 2 , W e s t l a k e C o r p o r a t i o n s p e n t $ 5 6 0 m i l l i o n l o c a l l y o n g o o d s

a n d s e r v i c e s , $ 2 2 m i l l i o n i n s t a t e / l o c a l a n d p r o p e r t y t a x e s , a n d $ 1 5 2 m i l l i o n i n p a y r o l l .

W e s t l a k e o f f e r s c o m p e t i t i v e p a y a n d e x c e l l e n t b e n e f i t s , i n c l u d i n g h e a l t h , d e n t a l , a n d e y e i n s u r a n c e V i s i t w w w w e s t l a k e c o m f o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n

I n 2 0 2 2 , W e s t l a k e v o l u n t e e r s d e d i c a t e d 1 , 3 0 0 h o u r s t o

o r g a n i z a t i o n s l i k e t h e U n i t e d W a y , C a r e H e l p ,

A b r a h a m ' s T e n t , B i g B r o t h e r s B i g S i s t e r s a n d m a n y m o r e

T h e 2 0 2 2 U n i t e d W a y c a m p a i g n a t

W e s t l a k e r a i s e d a t o t a l o f $ 4 8 7 , 6 0 0

I n 2 0 2 1 , W e s t l a k e ’ s L a k e C h a r l e s s i t e s c o m b i n e d

c o n t r i b u t e d t h e f o u r t h - h i g h e s t t o t a l - $ 1 . 1 M - t o t h e

U n i t e d W a y i n L o u i s i a n a .

w w w . w e s t l a k e . c o m

PROGRESS

Brad Franzio: Paying the kindness he received forward

By Marlisa Harding American Press

Brad Franzio, a Lake Charles resident, knows firsthand the importance of community. Growing up in New Orleans’ Ninth Ward, Franzio said his family was often the beneficiary of charity projects from neighborhood churches and non-profits.

“It’s not like we were destitute. It’s just that it was a way of life for our family,” he said. “My mom did the best she could, but without services like religious charities or community projects or even just generous neighbors I don’t think we would have made it sometimes.”

When he became an adult, Franzio said he was determined to pay it forward any chance he got.

“Gratitude was always emphasized in our home. My mom always said, ‘One day things will be different for you and you will have a chance to pay back people’s kindness.’ Well, when

I went to college, I was able to see exactly what she meant.”

Franzio began with school-based and fraternity projects. “I was always the one willing to chair a project or initiative,” he said.

“When other people were doing it for just a grade or service hours, I always felt different. I had a certain compassion because I knew only a few years prior the shoe was on the other foot.”

When he graduated, though, work-life balance made it difficult to maintain his commitment to service. “I felt really terrible about that. For the first time in my entire life, I had everything I needed financially. I was working hard, earning a good living, able to take care of my family back in New Orleans but still there was a void of some kind.”

A chance conversation with his mother about the void he was feeling opened his eyes. “She said, ‘B, I’m proud of all of your hard work. But don’t ever forget about others.’ I knew then she hit the nail on the head,” he said.

“My work schedule makes it difficult to volunteer for your typical projects so I developed my own little

schedule or mini-projects.”

For the homeless, he keeps snack bags and rarely-worn shoes and clothing in his trunk. He also makes a weekly point to “pay it forward” in the drive-thru by paying for the person behind him.

“I had to limit that one to weekly,” he said laughing. “Because of how often I do fast food — that one was really adding up too quickly!”

In the summer time, he keeps a cooler of iced water in his trunk for construction workers or pedestrians. And when grocery stores are collecting back-to-school supplies or Christmas toys, he prioritizes dropping something in the box each time.

“Is it the same as serving at the soup kitchen or building a house with Habitat? No, not exactly. But I believe I am making an impact by simply making the effort. Think about it. If everyone just tried to give back in even the smallest of ways how much better could our world be?”

Brad Franzio

Jody Barrilleaux: ‘HALOS’ help families after suicide

By Rita LeBleu American Press

“The way a person leaves this earth does not define his or her life.” That’s just one of the expressions often repeated by Jody Barrilleaux. Seven years ago, she lost her father, and it set her on a path that continues to influence who she is today.

“Grief of any kind is difficult and can be a lifelong process,” Barrilleaux said. “I know. I’m in the funeral industry. I’ve lost loved ones. But it wasn’t until I was in a room with others who had lost someone in their circle to death by suicide that I felt like I was among people who could relate to some of what I was going through.”

Barrilleaux, and others she refers to as the core HALOS group, have been providing a safe — and “real” — place for laments of grief, anger and

inconsolable loss among individuals who have lost someone from death by suicide.

“Like the Willie Nelson song, ‘It’s not something you get over, it’s something you get through,’” she said.

HALOS is the acronym for Healing After Loved One’s Suicide.

“Everyone starts the journey differently,” she said, referring to not only the core group, but the thousands of people with whom she’s had contact through meetings, conversations and social media.

She remembers a time after her father died when her only goal was to take the next breath. Core group member Sharon Istre lost her 21-yearold son in 2001, and her father to death by suicide after Hurricane Laura. Amy Johnson lost her only

See BARRILLEAUX, 14

Girl Scout Kassie Piatt drops off grief care packages to Johnson Funeral Home to be distributed to youth who have lost loved ones.

Special to the American Press

Piatt: Volunteers to help children cope with grief

Kassie

By Crystal Stevenson American Press

Lake Charles area Girl Scout Kassie Piatt has earned the Gold Award — the highest achievement in the organization — for volunteering to help children who have lost a family member cope with their loss.

The Girl Scout Gold Award is the standout achievement of girls who develop meaningful, sustainable solutions to challenges in their communities and the world.

“As Girl Scouts discover their passions and the power of their voices, they’ll want to take on an issue that’s captured their interest and is meaningful to them,” Cassandra Phillips, director of marketing and development with the Girl Scouts of LouisianaPines to the Gulf, said.

Piatt’s project involved creating grief care packages that were then distributed by Johnson Funeral Home.

Piatt said she felt the need to address the issue to help youth struggling with grief after losing a loved one.

“It is hard to balance a lot of things at once,” Piatt said. “It’s hard when a big obstacle comes in my way and I have to figure out a way to get over it and keep going.”

Inside the grief bags were coloring books, flashlights, candy, snacks, stress balls, picture frames and various toys.

“My results were amazing,” Piatt said. “I was always told from the workers at the funeral homes that the kids loved the bags. I reached my goals by not giving up when I wanted to. I had so many people there when I got stuck who helped me.”

BARRILLEAUX

Continued from 12

son. Ted Thibodeaux lost his young adult daughter, then his neighbor and now his brother. Regina Darbonne lost her sister to death by suicide and came to HALOS four years after because she was busy trying to hold it together for her family.

“Every person deals with tragedy differently. I can’t say I know how you feel. I won’t. I don’t. I only know how I feel and the benefits I’ve experienced with HALOS,” she said.

HALOS benefits those who meet in the same way other support groups work. Individuals realize they are not alone. They feel less isolated. There’s no judgment. It can help reduce distress, depression, anxiety and fatigue. It helps to talk honestly and openly about feelings and it supplies tools needed to meet the challenge of living.

“Our loved ones did not necessarily want to end their lives as much as they just wanted the pain to stop,” she said. She wondered if she would ever just miss her father without thinking about how he died. “One day, I did. I

Rita Bingham: Leading charge for animal rescue

Editor’s Note: This story was written ahead of Rita Bingham’s death on April 18, 2023.

By Pamela Sleezer American

Press

just thought about him. I didn’t think about how he died. Four or five years ago, if you’d told me I would have joy again, I wouldn’t have believed it. Whatever your struggle, your tragedy, your pain in this world, use it to help someone else,” she said. “It will help you. You’re here. This is a messy life. It is my hope that we can all stop and enjoy the here and now.”

For more about HALOS, call Barrilleaux at 337-794-3113.

At the age of 86 years, Rita Bingham would have expected to be living the retired life in a state of relaxed peace, but instead she finds herself leading the charge for animal rescue organizations across Southwest Louisiana.

“Sometimes I feel like I’m the only one doing this. But I just keep going,” Bingham said.

Bingham founded the low-kill Humane Society of West Louisiana, which operates out of a small headquarters located along the Lake Charles highway in DeRidder. There, Bingham houses the dozens upon dozens of animals that she accepts from other rescue organizations and abandoned animals brought to her by community members. She has become one of the only locations for miles around that will accept cats, and she said she is seeing first-hand an epidemic of stray cats in Southwest Louisiana.

“It’s horrible, it really is. No one else is accepting them; the municipal shelters here aren’t taking them so where are they supposed to go,” Bingham said.

She has operated the rescue for 24 years. She is the last remaining original board member of the nonprofit, and she continues to network throughout the area to provide the

animals brought to her with their best chance at a healthy future. She provides them with medical attention through local veterinarians who partner with her and temporary homes with the number of animal fosters she has made connections with.

It was through those networks and connections that Bingham met Lori Dover, the founder of the St. Huckleberry Animal Fund in Lake Charles. Dover strives to provide a happy and healthy future for abandoned animals she rescues out of Lake Charles and the surrounding area, but a lack of rescues for cats brought her to Bingham’s door.

“There is no one out there doing what Rita is doing. No one. I transport all of my rescues to Rita because through her determination and

See BINGHAM, 16

Special to the American Press

Jody Barrilleaux is walked down the wedding aisle in 1986 by her father, Kenneth Tyler Sr.

Rita Bingham

Kimberly Caldarera-Theriot: Dedicating life to helping community

By Emily Burleigh American Press

Southwest Louisiana native Kimberly Caldarera-Theriot has dedicated her life to using her talents to help the community.

Caldarera-Theriot credits her passion for helping others to her parents. “My dad would take his football players that didn’t have a ride home after practice. My mom would take time to cook for friends that were sick, bring the elderly to the doctor, or serve communion to someone that was immobile,” she said. “Both of them worked hectic, busy jobs, but still took time to think of their neighbor’s needs.”

BINGHAM

Continued from 14

incredible will, she has been able to create a network of hope for these animals when no one else has,” Dover said.

To Caldarera-Theriot, volunteering is defined as taking the time to focus on someone other than yourself.

Indeed, Bingham works through social media channels and her local network of volunteers, that includes her personal friends and family members, to find homes for her rescued animals. She also spends every Saturday driving to Alexandria to participate in adoption events.

“Either time, energy, money, a service, meals, whatever it may be, always keep in mind someone is struggling and would appreciate the consideration,” she said.

Her journey with volunteering began 20 years ago after her two sons were born. “I immediately wanted them to learn to think of the people that may not have the opportunities that they do. I wanted to make sure they stayed humble and appreciative of everything they have.”

“Taking the focus off of ourselves and focusing on the next guy keeps you thankful and appreciative for what you have, especially family. When you

Still, in all her years Bingham said she has never seen a cat overpopulation crisis like what she is seeing today.

“I can only take what I can take, but the biggest difference between me and any other rescue is that I answer the phone. You can’t reach these other places no matter how many times you call. People forget that ‘no’ is an answer, too. You just have to tell people that,” Bingham said.

Bingham said when she explains to people who bring her abandoned animals why she cannot take the animal — because she is beyond maximum capacity — she said their gratitude in being given an answer is almost always evident.

Those same individuals, Bingham said, will often assist her with fundraising efforts.

“We have garage sales here at the rescue building and the same people I have to turn away will bring me

give your time and resources, it not only helps the person but builds compassion and humility in ourselves.”

Caldarera-Theriot stays busy. She currently works as the marketing director and community liaison for Allen Parish Community Healthcare.

“I promote the Allen Parish Community Healthcare through media, digital and social media publications,” said Caldarera-Theriot. “I am also the person that brings the community together to create initiatives to better Kinder and its surrounding areas.”

She is also an active board member

See

items to sell and raise money with. All because I took the time to explain to them what I’m dealing with. Then, they see the crisis that I’m seeing,” she said.

For all her efforts, Dover said she would still be at a loss were it not for rescuers like Bingham.

“She is a true rarity on so many fronts. I am so lucky and grateful to have met her,” Dover said.

Bingham, however, is hardly one to focus on her own efforts.

During the aftermath of Hurricane Laura, Bingham housed more than 30 abandoned dogs in her home while continuing to network and care for animals that were brought to her because no one else would respond to requests, but she shrugs away any praise.

“This is what I do. Because if I don’t, then who will. Tomorrow there will be more animals and more phone calls, but you know what, I’m still going to answer the phone.”

Kimberly Caldarera-Theriot

THERIOT

for the Christus Foundation for HealthCare, on the board of directors for the Louisiana Association of Society Executives, vice president of the Southwest Louisiana Lodging Association, and on the advisory council for the Family and Youth Counseling Agency. She has also been previously involved with the Westlake Rotary, and currently works with the Kinder Rotary.

She graduated from McNeese in 1995 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management with a concentration in business.

Caldarera-Theriot played a heavy role in raising $1,000,000 for Christus to build the Heart Hybrid Suite. “This will allow doctors to perform openheart surgeries and catheter procedures in the same operating room,” she said. “Doctors will not have to move the patient in the middle of one of these procedures.”

The Heart Hybrid suite will be named after Caldarera-Theriot’s

father, who died of ventricular fibrillation in 2016.

Other activities she participates in include cooking and feeding those in need, giving Christmas present to children with incarcerated parents, and caring for children and the elderly.

Caldarera-Theriot also uses her cosmetology license to help the community. “I offer my services at no charge if they are unable to pay.”

“I enjoy giving makeovers to those that can’t afford those services,” she said. “I am a licensed cosmetologist so I am able to give back by giving haircuts, colors, highlights, and a makeup makeover.”

Caldarera-Theriot offered advice for those who wish to start volunteering. “I would begin by volunteering in a few different projects,” she said. “Helping others and taking the focus off of yourself is a great reward to yourself.”

“See which one creates a passion inside of your soul and motivates you to do more. Mix it up! You may find something that you never would have guessed you’d enjoy.”

VOTED THE BEST 9 TIMES!

Daisy Jones: Making a difference in lives of children

By Rita LeBleu American Press

Having grandparents around is good for everyone. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Louisiana wants to make more of them available in Cameron, Jeff Davis and Calcasieu parishes. Volunteers ages 55 and older are currently being recruited to serve in its Foster Grandparent Program to work one-on-one with students struggling with reading and math.

Americorp Seniors offers a stipend of $3.15 an hour for these volunteers.

“This stipend does not affect the amount of your social security check, housing allowance, food stamps or other government benefits,” said Kathy Richard, program director. “It is not taxable by federal regulations.”

Foster grandparents can work 20

to 40 hours per week, receive mileage reimbursement and receive paid time off for holidays.

Along with the practical hands-on work, grandparents also help boost the self-esteem and self-confidence of children and help teachers who often don’t have the time needed to help a struggling student one-onone.

After her husband died in the 1980s, Daisy Jones became the single parent of three. In 2018, after retiring from her 40-year career with a large telecommunications company, Jones decided she’d look into the Big Brothers Big Sisters Foster Grandparent Program.

“I confess, I really didn’t realize I had signed up until later in the conversation,” she said with a chuckle.

See JONES, 20

For over 30 years, Landscape Management Services has provided Southwest Louisiana with leading commercial and residential landscape installation and maintenance. In addition to a full range of landscaping, design and maintenance services, we offer a fully stocked retail nursery and landscape supply center. You can pick up from our location, or we can deliver all of your plants, soils, mulches, decorative stone, aggregates and much more!

PROGRESS

Dana Frye: Volunteering a way of life

“It was probably best that it worked out that way, or I might never have done it, and I’m so glad I did. All that free time after retirement was OK at first, but then the walls started to close in. I knew I had to do something.”

Even though Jones made a point to interact with her daughters and attend their activities when they were growing up, she does remember the challenges of being a single mother. She’s also come to realize that her praise for even the smallest accomplishments might be the only praise the child receives.

“Being with these children has allowed me to revisit that stage of life,” she said, “and now, sitting in that classroom, sometimes with kids who want attention so badly, they’re going to make sure they get it one way or the other, I remember something my mother told me. You may not always be able to reach your own children, but someone will.”

She recalls the day one student ran up to her exclaiming, “I can read, I can read.” This was only one example of the many times she realized that even when kids don’t appear to be listening, they are.

“Being a Big Brother Big Sister Foster Grandparent gives me a reason to get up in the morning. It’s something to look forward to. It’s real. And, if I make a difference in only one child’s life, well that’s something. I can tell you this. They’ve definitely made a difference in mine.”

By Emily Burleigh American Press

Lake Charles resident Dana Frye has spent the majority of her life volunteering, especially for animals. One of her first memories is of her rescuing a litter of puppies when she was a child.

“My first love was animals in need,” Fyre said. “At 2 years old, my mother dressed me warmly, and I went down the steps and three houses down all alone. One by one, I carried the neighbors’ six big puppies to our old shed.”

Fyre credits her love for volunteering to her upbringing.

“I don’t think one wakes up one random day and says, ‘I’m volunteering today!’ ” she explained. “It was the way we lived.”

From delivering Christmas presents to children in need to donating fresh milk from their cow, Elsie, to feeding hungry families, Fyre’s family consistently volunteered in their spare time, she said. “Mother said once you commit, you follow through, and you always give your best self”

Frye is originally from Wichita Falls, Texas, but moved to Lake Charles with her family during her senior year of high school. It was in Lake Charles that she met her husband and father of her four children.

According to Frye, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. “A storm was coming, and I arrived home from work to find animals and food bowls all over the house.” The culprit was

her daughter, Paula.

“I thought, what on Earth!” explained Frye. “She to this day still rescues, fixes, and finds homes for stray cats. She sends me the dogs!

“They all have the compassion to help others or animals,” she said.

Frye has been involved with Lake Area Partnerships of Animal Welfare, or LAPAW Rescue, for 21 years. Today, she runs the organization. “It’s a 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week adventure!”

Especially over the past few years, Frye explained. “With all the hurricanes, floods, and freezes, so many people lost their homes, including pets.

When it comes to pet rescue, Frye

doesn’t only help the animals.

“Most rescues have a person. I try to help them out also.” She always helps in-need pet owners by supplying them with food, medicine, and any other supplies they need to take care of themselves and their pets.

Frye has words for people who are interested in becoming a volunteer: “Learn to share your time and talents with those that need a little help.”

There are many places to volunteer, according to Frye, “The church, the library, schools, the parish animal control, the hospitals, oh mercy me, the care centers. You will have many best friends there!”

“You will never be bored once you volunteer.”

Mike Gray: Volunteering can feed the soul

By Emily Burleigh American Press

Mike Gray believes volunteers are created when they are selflessly helped by someone else.

“I’ve experienced situations where you see people volunteering because of how it feeds their souls. There is no other reward except how it makes them whole.

Gray is originally from Savannah, Ga., but considers Southwest Louisiana to be his home. He moved to Cameron when he was 3.

“I graduated from South Cameron High School in 1997. Go Tarpons!”

He received his associate of science in computer information technology and his bachelor’s in general studies with a concentration in information

technology from McNeese State University. He has since put 22 years of work into the technology industry at Xpedius Communications and the Calcasieu Parish School Board. He currently works at Citgo Petroleum Corporation as a tech support analyst.

Gray’s inspiration to volunteer is fueled by watching the fulfillment of

See GRAY, 22

Daisy Jones

Dana Frye oversees the Lake Area Partnerships of Animal Welfare organization.

Special to the American Press

CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL BOARD

Located in Southwest Louisiana, Calcasieu Parish is a fast-growing area making Calcasieu Parish School Board (CPSB) one of the largest school districts in the state. From academics to athletics and gifted to special education, CPSB teachers and administrators team up with families focusing on the core mission of the district: building foundations for the future.

Resources

Interested in being a part of CPSB?

Scan the QR codes below to follow the link to the appropriate page!

TEACHERS STUDENTS

With over 4,700 employees and 2,600 teachers, CPSB is the largest employer in the parish. With ongoing professional development opportunities and a culture of high achievement, CPSB exemplifies a diverse workforce with a passion for public education and its students

CPSB students are provided with a multitude of opportunities in innovation and academic excellence. Improved curriculum through the effective use of technology, accountability, assessment, instruction, and professional development are impacted by multiple district projects

Courtney Deitch: Volunteering puts life’s troubles into perspective

By Emily Burleigh American Press

To Moss Bluff native Courtney Deitch, volunteering is about helping wherever you are able. “It means doing what you can to help others who are in need.”

She began her volunteer work by feeding the homeless wherever she was.

“I started out by pulling over when I saw people hungry and just visiting with them and offering food. It has grown over the years since then,” she said. “I’ve always had a soft spot for people hurting and struggling.”

Deitch works as the director of operations for Room In The Inn.

“Room In The Inn is a non-profit that is not connected to a particular church, but many churches in our area participate,” she explained. “I love it, because all religions come together to help those in need.”

Deitch said a church picks a couple nights a month to feed, house and transport the homeless at their facility.

“We help the homeless in our area with food and other needs,” Deitch

GRAY

Continued from 20

other volunteers.

“I have personally had help in my life,” Gray said. “When you feel what it is like for someone to help because they wanted to, it makes you want to be that person making people feel the way you did.

“Volunteering for me means that my family and I are able to give someone or some group hope in whatever it is that they may need it for.”

Gray ensures his sons are taught the volunteering values. He has two main reasons for doing this. “They are typically viewed as the ones that need the help, but in turn they are both able to help to hopefully change the culture standard that anyone can help someone.

“Second, when one helps another for no physical or monetary reward, they will appreciate it when someone helps them in the future.”

said. “Our ministry looks different since the hurricane. Before Laura hit, we sheltered during the really cold and really hot months at local churches. Many of our churches have not recovered yet, so that part of our ministry has not started back up.”

For Deitch, volunteering helps to put life’s troubles into perspective.

“It always feels good to get outside of your own problems and daily life and see the struggles others are facing,” Deitch said. “Even if you can’t do much, every little bit helps. Carry cold water or other drinks and give them to people that can’t get in the air conditioning. Donate needed items to a local organization that goes out and helps the underprivileged. Use your gift and blessings to help others.”

Deitch makes it a mission to pass the desire to volunteer down to her children.

“My children love attending Room In The Inn and having the opportunity to visit with and connect with those less fortunate in our community,” she said. “We have made friendships and bonds with many of our guests that have lasted throughout the years.

“I believe that there is no better way to raise your children than to teach them the importance of loving others in all walks of life. We live in a time where selfishness is the norm. When children are allowed to experience love and giving outside of their circle, it leaves a lasting impression on

Mike Gray said volunteering means he and his family can give someone or some group hope in whatever it is that they may need.

Special to the American Press

Gray stays busy volunteering for various causes.

One of his most memorable volunteer experiences occurred at the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s Camp Starlite.

“We played with water balloons,

water guns, and a game of Battleship. During that time, I could see that our time there as a team allowed them to feel like any other kid.”

Gray annually volunteers as Santa Clause at local elementary schools. “Getting to be the one to listen to each

their lives.”

In her free time, Deitch stays busy. In addition to work, volunteering, and spending time with her husband and four children, she upkeeps a small goat farm. She also enjoys traveling, “eating amazing food,” and taking time to soak up the sunshine and water.

one of the kids and see their face light up lets me know that I’m making a difference.

“One I get to volunteer for and be a part of with my entire family is Ainsley’s Angels of SWLA,” Gray added. “This is very important to me as a father, because I get to lend my legs to my very own two boys in order for them to win a 5K, 10K, and half-marathons.”

In addition to running with their Ainsley’s Angel Pink Family, Gray also volunteers as an assistant Scoutmaster. “This gives me the opportunity to see and help young boys gain the tools and knowledge required to be productive young adults.”

Gray wants others to volunteer, not because it’s the right or cool thing to do, but because you want to give your time to others.

“I believe that giving your time is the most valuable thing anyone can do. When you stop what you want to do in order to do something for others, it is the most rewarding.”

Special to the American Press Courtney Deitch said every little bit helps when it comes to serving others less fortunate.

PROGRESS

Lacy Lavergne: Serving others during tax season

By Emily Burleigh American Press

For Lacy Lavergne, 35, the experience of being a volunteer is eye-opening.

“To volunteer is to understand the harsh realities of life,” she said. Compassion follows this understanding. “You develop empathy towards people who are less fortunate than you.”

She has volunteered with United Way of Southwest Louisiana’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program for 11 years. This program provides free tax prep to “low-to-moderate income individuals, persons with disabilities, senior citizens and limited English-speaking residents who qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC),” according to United Way SWLA.

Lavergne is able to volunteer her financial expertise through VITA. She currently serves as the accountant for the Calcasieu Parish School Nutrition Program.

Originally from Sowards, La., she moved to Lake Charles in 2008 to attend McNeese State University, where she earned three bachelor’s degrees over 14 years: Bachelor of Science in accounting with a minor in taxation, Bachelor of Science in management and a Bachelor of Science in human resources. Her son, Liam, motivated her to start volunteering.

“As a parent of a young male, I know the equivalence of an excellent education and the double standards he may face,” she explained. “My expectations are to raise him in a way that he will want to give back to his community.

“It is important to Lavergne that she leads by example, and this is a role that she embraces with pride. “It is pertinent that our children have strong role models to look up to, and I intend to be a positive face for Southwest Louisiana.”

As a part of her core beliefs, Lavergne says she lives by the bible quote “to whom much is given, much will be required (Luke 12:48).” She is aware of her blessings, and in turn gives back to the community without expecting anything in return. “Volunteering is serving people without any selfish motives, without expectations,” says Lavergne She has found that altruism benefits the community as a whole. “It means making the world a better place

… It will help us connect with others, build community and create positive change in the world.”

This is especially true in Southwest Louisiana, she said. “Southwest Louisiana and Lake Charles will benefit from altruism as we rebuild our community.

“Most families are still trying to recuperate from the last few years with COVID-19 and natural disasters,” Lavergne said. “By offering local help, VITA makes a real difference in people’s lives.”

Even if taxation is not your area of expertise, Lavergne urges all members of the community to take their talents or resources and volunteer.

“I advise everyone to get out there. We need all hands-on deck to help rebuild our community.”

Small actions make waves. “Please keep in mind that one person cannot always do everything. Even the most minor things you do will benefit the neighborhood.”

By Emily Burleigh American Press

Jennifer Sproles, 40, considers herself “somewhat of a newbie” in her volunteer work with Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA).

CASA is a nationwide advocacy group that provides abused and neglected children a voice in legal situations.

Sproles began working with CASA in the summer of 2022 and is currently working on her first two cases. In her role, she gathers information by conducting regular check-ins on the children and interviewing their biological and/or foster parents to ensure that she is able to properly represent the children in court.

“It’s really about advocating for what best fits the needs for the child in foster care,” she said. “We make sure that they are looked out for, and that

essentially turns into advocating for them in court and figuring out how to best meet those needs, whatever they might be.”

Volunteering with CASA lived in the back of her mind for quite a while. “It is something that I thought about doing for a long time,” she said.

She was concerned by the emotional toll that can result from this brand of volunteer work. “The hesitation on my part was that it seemed like something that was overwhelming”

In the end, she decided the need for child advocacy in the DeRidder area was too great. “I couldn’t think of a better use of my time than to spend it volunteering.”

Sproles said CASA made the transition into volunteer work easy for her. “They’ve been tremendous. I have an absolutely amazing supervisor,” she said. “Even in the beginning, I’ve never felt like I was alone in this. I always

have multiple people and resources to reach out to for assistance, and they really make it as easy as possible”

The experience has been eye-opening for Sproles. “A lot of us do not understand

what needs that there are that are not being met until you get in there and get your hands dirty.”

She acknowledged the personal joys she has experienced through her volunteer work, and believes that every adult can benefit from them.“I think there are personal benefits… just knowing that you are contributing to, and lending a helping hand to, one of the most vulnerable groups in our community — the kids in foster care,” she said. “I think everyone is probably better for that.”

For Sproles, helping others through action is a habit that was established when she was young. “Acts of service were a big part of our love language growing up, so that’s something that is so important to me,” she said. “To not only serve the ones you love, but to also serve those in your community.”

This philosophy was established by her family. “That was something I saw demonstrated through my grandparents, through my grandmother especially.”

Lacy Lavergne

Jennifer Sproles

Jennifer Sproles: ‘I couldn’t think of a better use of my time’

PROGRESS

Maegan Gonzales: Volunteers are ‘hopeful helpers’

By Emily Burleigh American Press

Local artist, poet, certified yoga instructor, and college composition educator Maegan Gonzales has come to realize that her propensity to volunteer her time and abilities to others is attributed to her “large-hearted” grandmother.

Gonzales reminisced on how her grandmother would serve at food kitchens, host get-togethers for loved ones, and donate time “to create carol books and wrangling folks together to sing door-to-door and offer joy at Christmas to people she didn’t know.

“These things undoubtedly influenced who I am and are likely the reason volunteering seems more and more to me like something you just do, no questions asked, or at least not many, whenever you can in whatever little way to offer something to someone or the community that helps,” she explained.

She believes volunteers are helpers, “hopeful helpers even.”

Gonzales had not previously considered herself a volunteer. “I’m not exactly selfless, but I am hopeful and I do believe in helping in ways that you’re able, big and small,” she said. “I

have always been very interested and concerned about the internal worlds of a person and what effect that has on their community.”

To fulfill her desire to aid others, Gonzales, in tandem with the Imperial Calcasieu Museum, began sharing her

yoga practice with community members through Yoga Under the Oak.

“It didn’t take long after beginning to teach that I longed for a yoga community where I felt safe and free in my body and at home in my mind that way I did when I was studying under my teachers,” she said. “It wasn’t until my time at the museum that I truly felt like the yoga practice I had to offer was aligned with what I believed the practice could offer.”

Yoga Under the Oak started small, sometimes only having two to three participants. “We kept believing in it, I kept believing in it.” After moving the practices outside under the treasured Sallier Oak Tree due to pandemic concerns, the program thrived like never before.

“The pandemic isolated everyone. Everyone was starving for community,” she said. “The pandemic forced a lot of people to take a closer look at what they valued and what they were

Special to the American Press Maegan Gonzales leads Yoga Under the Oak at Imperial Calcasieu Museum.

See GONZALES, 32

Progress Abounds in Lake Charles

The City of Lake Charles Sets its Sights on Continued Success in 2023

After the natural disasters of 2020 and 2021, Lake Charles is definitely getting her stride back.

With recovery efforts well underway, and ongoing repairs to City buildings nearing completion, the City certainly has found some joie de vivre lately.

Efforts to obtain an equitable and commensurate federal disaster aid response were finally met with success and a number of programs, aimed at creating a pathway to secure, safe and affordable housing are now thoroughly underway.

Stories of positive progress and development have made headlines through the first quarter of 2023.

Lake Area Adventures has brought a new sense of adventure with their stateof-the-art entertainment venue and a number of new restaurants are expanding dining options across the City. New businesses such as retail establishments and medical facilities have opened in recent months.

Ribbon cuttings for new and old businesses in every corner of the City are all positive signs that our community is well on its way to long-term recovery.

In mid-2021, the City Council authorized $20 million in drainage debt and spending. Those funds are being utilized everyday throughout the City. The drainage improvement program the City launched in 2017 has benefited greatly from these extra funds. The City is hopeful that FEMA will reimburse for some of these costs Today, the City has the most aggressive drainage improvement program in her history well underway.

The outdoor spaces at all City parks are now open! The City was delighted to join forces with Sasol, its Partner in Parks partner for Tuten and Riverside Parks, to reopen the front portion of Tuten Park in mid-November 2022. Planning and design work continues on restoring and reopening the back trails of the park, but the swings, walking path and other amenities of the front portion of the park are once again a popular gathering space for many.

Riverside Park recently received some TLC thanks to the volunteer efforts of the SWLA Veterans Association. This park offers an escape to nature and is one of the most beautiful vistas in the City, with its boat launch and walking trail that winds along the banks of the Calcasieu River.

A special Partners in Parks fund at the Community Foundation of Southwest aims to improve infrastructure and enhance programming at parks Citywide. Since the Hunter Administration’s July 2018 announcement of the fund, more than one million dollars in private and grant funds have been secured and transformative projects have been completed at parks Citywide.

Recently, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for the Nellie Lutcher Memorial Park, located on Enterprise Boulevard in the heart of the Nellie Lutcher Cultural District. This park, when complete, will provide a wonderful quality of life experience to this area, packed with development potential.

Port Wonder will house a brand new Children’s Museum and Science & Nature Center on the lakefront. Port Wonder construction is well underway, with a projected completion date of May 2024.

An RFP for a hotel located on the grounds of the Lake Charles Civic Center is also currently open. City officials are hopeful they will be able to submit a successful proposal to the Lake Charles City Council for consideration within the next 60-90 days.

This report merely scratches the surface of the multitude of positive stories currently being shared throughout the City.

When reflecting back over these past few years, the most inspiring and transformational aspect of our community in recent years isn’t anything accomplished by brick and mortar.

The people of this community, their resolve and their community spirit have been the driving factor of recent successes.

The City of Lake Charles would like to thank every citizen of this City for their part in our recovery story. You are what makes Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana such a special place to call home.

Don Lewis: Bridge Foundation exposes youth to art, culture

By Emily Burleigh American Press

In alignment with their motto, “The Bridge of Tomorrow,” the Bridge Foundation is an arts and culture youth and community non-profit organization that aims to bring Southwest Louisiana together through cultural awareness, artistic encouragement and real-world skill building.

Don Lewis, president, said the foundation will provide for every demographic. “No particular race, no particular side of town; we want to help everyone.”

The Bridge Foundation was founded in October 2021 by Lewis. He was inspired to create a non-profit to enrich the community during his global missionary travels — Asia, Indonesia, England and Spain to name a few.

“I’ve learned a great deal of things while traveling globally by seeing how people live and learning to respect and appreciate people’s differences.”

Lewis reminisced about his recent trip to Bangkok. “I was just mind blown by their way of life,” he said.

It is his goal to bring these revelations to the youth of Southwest Louisiana. “I’m in my 30s, so just imagine what would happen if someone in middle school was exposed to that lifestyle.”

For Lewis and those working with the Bridge Foundation, the benefits of being exposed to art and culture are countless; however, the greatest benefit is the human connectivity it provides.

“Knowing more about other cultures makes you a more worldly person,” he said. “Some people just don’t get along in the world … but the few things that bind them together are music, food, travel, culture and art.”

Lewis knows what it is like to grow up without specialized arts and culture education. “I was raised on the north side of Lake Charles, and the resources are a little bit limited there,” he explained.

He said this foundation is his way of giving back to his community, which he knows needs more. “The children

don’t have very many arts programs or exposure programs that can give them the ability to dream beyond what they are used to seeing.”He believes there are even fewer programs now than when he was a student at Washington-Marion High School, citing a lack of personal finance classes and limited use of cursive handwriting as examples. “We had programs that are much different than programs we have now because times have changed and the structure of school has changed.”

Lewis aims to fill this gap through the foundation. “That’s not art, but that’s culture. It’s learning things that teach you and get you by.”

The Bridge Foundation is still in its infancy stages. “Nonprofit work really takes a lot of time and resources and people, and I am learning that day after day,” Lewis said.

So far, they have been able to host small giveaways, plan events and develop programming that will provide for the community. The biggest event that local kids can look forward to is the foundation’s week-long summer camp, which will introduce partici pants to different cultures, artistic en deavors and alternative career paths.

Lewis looks forward to introducing campers to the many careers available in film and visual arts. “A lot of stu dents don’t know you can have a career path to that, so the Bridge Foundation plans to expose the children to that,” he said. “The students just really know that you can be a doctor or lawyer, or that you can work at the chemical plants or casinos … but there is a ton of creative outlets that I believe they haven’t been exposed to yet. When you are exposed to things, it gives you the freedom to think about things that are beyond your lived experience.”

PROGRESS

Julie Chainey: Loves teaching and helping others succeed

By Emily Burleigh American Press

Julie Chainey has spent almost two decades volunteering with the Beauregard Christian Women’s Job Corps (BCWJC) in DeRidder.

Aligning with their philosophy

“Give a hand-up, not a hand-out,” BCWJC “provides women in need the opportunity to gain job and life skills, equips them for employment and assists in their spiritual and emotional growth,” Chainey said.

Clarence Boudreaux: Family at heart of generosity

By Emily Burleigh American Press

To give back to his found family, Clarence Boudreaux, 46, has dedicated his time to be a volunteer for the Sulphur community.

He donates a significant amount of his time to his church, Our Lady of LaSalette Catholic Church in Sulphur, and the Sulphur Senior Center.

Boudreaux has been a regular volunteer at the Calcasieu Council on Aging Sulphur Senior Center for two years.

“Volunteerism at the center means a lot to me.”

He began working with the center after being exposed to their events through his family. “My mom and my aunts would go to the Sulphur Senior Center,” he explained. He soon started sponsoring bingo at the center. Six times a year, he hosts bingo events with “prizes, food and fun.”

He also helps out at the center’s monthly parties by serving food and photographing the event for their Facebook page.

While volunteering, he feels connected to a community; he has found a second home. “When I go to the Sulphur Senior Center, I feel like family.”

He feels especially connected to those at the Sulphur Senior Center, as

his grandparents have passed.

“My grandparents are no longer with me … I feel that they are my adopted grandmas and grandpas.”

Family has always been at the heart of Boudreaux’s generosity. His mother, Beverly Boudreaux, and late father, Cladomire Boudreaux Sr., inspired his love for altruism.

They taught him that there are no limitations on giving back to the community. “My dad would say, ‘No matter how little or how much money you have, you should help someone out or give to the community... and if you don’t have any money, do it in another way.’ ”

This other way is kindness, and is what Boudreaux embodies. He believes everyone has the ability to “show your love and compassion to someone that may be in need in your community.”

He believes there are no limits to altruism and aims to serve as an example.

“I really hope that this will inspire someone to help their community no matter what age you are.”

There are many ways to volunteer for the center, such as donating food to the food pantry and helping at events, Boudreaux said.

To learn more about how to help at a regional senior center, contact CCOA at 337-474-2583.

The program is Christian-based, connected to the community and is open to women 18 and older, so long as they are drug and alcohol free. Additionally, the program is free.

Over the course of 12 weeks, participants are paired with a mentor, take skill-building classes, gain one week of on-the-job training, register with the state employment offices and are granted the opportunity to earn a GED if they need to acquire it.

BCWJC was founded in 2004, and Chainey has been there since the beginning. She has tutored and mentored, but has found her calling in teaching.

Chainey began volunteering from a young age, but fully developed her habit of helping while she was raising her children. “I’m a military wife. I had kids, so everytime we went somewhere, I was involved with my kids and their activities.”

As time went on, Chainey found herself seeking new channels to direct her energy to. “When they grew up and moved, I had to reinvent myself and do what I like to do.”

This reinvention led her to BCWJC. “I’m the type of person that enjoys teaching and I love to see people succeed,” she explained. “That was my basic aim, to see other people make it in life.”

She has taught the Jobs for Life class for 15 years. This is the only class that BCWJC requires of their students. Chainey teaches two, twohour sessions a week in four to sixweek semesters.

Chainey educates participants on

a wide range of applicable life skills, including setting goals, resume preparation, interview practice, interpersonal relationships and even how to maintain hope in difficult situations. “Anything from A to Z, that is my position,” she said. “The class I teach covers anything and everything one needs to know from day one.”

An inclusive class is vital for women that enroll in BCWJC’s program. “Some of them don’t even know what they want to do in life, so we present them with lots of possibilities and help match them to a job based on their interests and personalities.”

Students get hands-on experience. “They go out in the field doing volunteer work, practicing what they want to do in life to see if it really is what they would like to do.”

BCWJC also offers classes such as financial management, health and nutrition, keyboarding and computer skills, parenting, non-denominational Bible study and GED preparation.

She would like to see more women take advantage of the free resources and knowledge BCWJC offers. “I wish more places would offer it and more people would take the classes to get where they want to be,” she said. “Those who have stayed with us hopefully will succeed in the job force, because they are well prepared to work.”

To learn more about BCWJC, visit beauregardcwjc.org.

Julie Chainey

Clarence Boudreaux at the Sulphur Senior Center’s 2022 Christmas Bingo. Special to the American Press

PROGRESS

Lorenna Higgins: Offers smiling face, kind words

By Emily Burleigh American Press

Treasured local volunteer Lorenna Higgins lends her time to help patrons at the Calcasieu Parish Law Library at the Southwest Louisiana Law Center. She has been with the Law Center Library for about seven years.

In the years prior to Hurricane Laura, Higgins was employed at the institution. After returning home from her hurricane evacuation, Higgins decided to return to her former place of employment a few days out of the week as a volunteer.

“I was gone for about a year,” she said. “When I came back, I wanted to have something to do. So, I decided to volunteer there.”

Volunteer work helps Higgins remain out and about.

“At my age, I like to still get up and interact with people. It’s about that

GONZALES

Continued from 26

willing to do to keep what they valued present.

“I knew yoga was one of the things that could not be lost with the devastation Lake Charles had faced and we would have to weave the practice back in as soon as we could … so, when the opportunity came, we would find a way because we had to.”

For Gonzales, sharing the practice of yoga is one of the most meaningful ways that she can give to the community. “When I’m sharing yoga, it doesn’t feel so much like giving myself or my time away as it feels like an exchange.”

She referenced the “slow, gooey, and mindful” yoga practice that she fell in love with is the practice she wishes to share. “I could cry on my mat after a yoga session especially when I was studying with a teacher to guide me into that space of safety.

“I wanted to offer people that gooey feeling of mindfulness felt in the body.

giving of yourself and trying to be an aide in whatever area that you can.”

In her position, she often encounters people dealing with delicate and stressful situations. “Sometimes people come in and they are just a little upset or they feel like nobody has time to listen to them,” she said. “So I’m there to listen to them. I’ve had to pull out the Kleenex, and just let them talk. It means a lot to be people sometimes, to just have someone to listen to.”

At the library, Higgins helps patrons determine and purchase the forms they require for various legal situations.

“I cannot give them any legal advice, but they are able to purchase these forms. If they decide that they cannot do it, then we always advise that they talk to the law center and possibly speak to an attorney.”

See

HIGGINS, 34

A feeling that felt so safe and at home in yourself that you could cry.”

She said she believes that yoga, at its root, is a form of altruism. “Yoga means ‘to yoke’ or ‘to unite.’ It’s entirely about union.

“I wholeheartedly believe in the benefit a yoga practice offers to an individual’s and a community’s well-being,” she explained. “When I’m sharing yoga, it doesn’t feel so much like giving myself or my time away as it feels like an exchange.”

“When we gather under the oak, we’re also gathering with community members — people you may not have met before except that you’re all showing up to practice doing the same thing: acknowledging your breath, moving around a bit, and really just being.”

Gonzales believes “healing and growth are truly made possible through connection and community.”

She wishes for new volunteers to “notice what you’re already doing and see what kind of time you realistically have to offer” and to put out what they wish to see more of in the world.

‘Grandmother Favor’: Happiness is a choice

By Rita LeBleu American Press

It’s never too late to become the person you always wanted to be. Seniors 55 and older are making a difference in children’s lives through the Southwest Louisiana Big Brothers Big Sisters AmeriCorps Seniors Program by helping students at local schools with reading, math and by sharing wisdom that could impact more than school success.

“These little kindergartners are so precious,” said foster grandparent Elaine Favor. “But as young as they are, some of them come in with a little attitude. Maybe they don’t have what other kids might have, and we work on that.”

Favor helps 4- and 5-year-olds understand a profound truth not even some adults have mastered: happiness is a choice.

Foster grandparents receive a small

HIGGINS

Continued from 32

Higgins is not a lawyer, but according to Mark Judson, former Law Center executive director and general counsel, “her general life experiences, listening skill and pleasant and helpful nature results in peace of mind” in the center’s patrons.

Higgins returns these sentiments. “The Law Center workers, we are all like family,” she said. “It is a very pleasant place to work.”

For Higgins, there is happiness to be found in giving to other people. “Sometimes it’s just nice to see a smiling face or some kind words,” she said. “I just love people.”

“I get joy out of the response when you are able to help, especially with all of the things we as a community have been going through over these past few years,” she said. “It’s just nice to be able to talk to someone and feel good when you walk away, or see the same response on them.”

stipend, $3.15 an hour, from Americorps, according to Program Director Kathy Richard. This income is not taxable and does not affect the amount of the foster grandparent’s social security check, housing allowance, food stamps or other government benefits.

Favor, 77, said the rewards go way

See FAVOR , 36

This is the most pleasant part of her position. “A smile and a kindness towards people means a whole lot,” she said. “You see their response … their whole demeanor begins to change. They’re just so happy and so glad, and so you’re glad that you are able to provide that for them.”

There are many benefits and joys found in volunteering, but it isn’t always easy. “You really have to be a people person, you really have to be patient, and you have to extend kindness,” she said. “You run into different types of people, but you have to be patient and you have to try to provide whatever it is that they need.

“You’ve got to make them feel like they are important, which they are. What they are experiencing is important. You have to be interested in what they have to say and find out how you can further assist them in their situation.”

When she is not at the Law Library, Higgins finds herself helping at her church and visiting the Calcasieu Parish Public Library.

Elaine Favor

Continued from 34

beyond the stipend. She has been a foster grandparent for 10 years and works 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at a nearby school.

“I love it,” she said. “I love to see the look on the children’s faces when they finally get it.”

Favor said she might have “a little hurt here or there” and have a hard time getting started in the mornings, but the aches and pains are soon forgotten after she begins her one-on-one work with one of the students.

“If I stayed home, I’d just hurt all day. Those kids help me as much or more than I help them,” she said. “Sometimes I bring them little gifts when they’ve accomplished something out of the ordinary, nothing major, a little coloring book or a little bag of chips and they put it in their backpacks and take it home. They all call me ‘Grandmother Favor.’ ”

Children Favor helped tutor years ago always speak to her when she runs into them. (She admits she doesn’t always remember their names, but she never lets on.)

Jim Rock: Opportunity to help an honor

By Emily Burleigh American Press

Jim Rock believes that volunteerism is “simply the sharing of one’s time and talent for the benefit of others.”

For Rock, his talent primarily stems from his copious amounts of experience in the industry field. He has worked in various engineering, maintenance, operations, and environment health and safety positions, for 45 years. Though he currently works as the executive director of Lake Area Industry Alliance, he has previously retired from PPG and Lotte Chemical.

This experience has inspired his volunteer work.

“I was fortunate enough to work for PPG who, like other local industries, sees value in community improvement activities,” he said. “My employer not only supported but encouraged volunteerism.”

During his time volunteering

through PPG, he did things such as initiating the first “Partner in Education” between Our Lady Queen of Heaven and a local business. “That relationship with the plant and Our Lady Queen of Heaven still exists

where my grandchildren are students.”

Rock’s journey with volunteerism began when he was a teenager. “I started doing volunteer work back in high school when I served as the president of the Catholic youth organization in my parish,” he said.

During this time, he and his peers participated in trash clean-up activities, ran the concession stand, and worked with parish service groups.

Currently, Rock serves on several boards and committees: Community Foundation of SWLA, SWLA Safety Council, Alliance for Positive Growth, Chamber of Commerce Committees (Workforce Development and Environmental), Louisiana Chemical Association Committees (Safety and Security), McNeese State University School of Business Advisory Council, and the Just Imagine SWLA Advisory Council.

Jim Rock

See ROCK, 37

PROGRESS

Nannette Vincent: Helping ‘fills my heart’

By Emily Burleigh American Press

Nannette Vincent plays an indispensable role in the various Sulphur Senior Center activities.

As a partner for the elderly, Vincent volunteers her time to help with many events at the center; however, her two primary events are bingo and “Nanette’s Kitchen.”

Every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Vincent can be found at the center’s bi-weekly bingo game. Sometimes she calls bingo, and sometimes she runs the show.

“It depends on how many volunteers we have,” she explained. “If I’m there by myself, which sometimes happens, I’ll be the one to hand them their gift. Then, we start all over again.”

The entry fee for bingo is $1, and participants are able to win prizes

ROCK

Continued from 36

Projects he is volunteering his time include the McNeese LNG Center of Excellence and the I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge Task Force. He is also session moderator and a member of the planning committee for America’s LNG and Gas Summit and Exhibition.

For Rock, there is always someone in the community that can benefit from acts of volunteerism.

“Every community has members that range from newborns to the most elderly citizens with needs,” he explained. “There is always something that can be done for others, but in the last two years, the needs in Southwest Louisiana have been off the charts.

“Having the means and the opportunity to help others is not only a right, it is an honor. To not take advantage of that opportunity to help others is a waste of resources.”

He believes that people who want to volunteer should consider utilizing their own talents to enact the most change. “I would suggest that people

such as toilet paper, paper towels, and dishwashing soap.

Once a month, members of the center look forward to “Nanette’s Kitchen.” Vincent said what she cooks can range from pancakes and sausage to her highly demanded chicken salad sandwiches.

Other popular events at the center include chair yoga, Tai Chi, and bean bag baseball. Vincent also said that every few months, the center takes patrons on a field trip. Most recently, Vincent and her peers brought members to a flea market in Jennings.

Vincent said all of the money raised at events is used as funding for the Sulphur Senior Center. The center is also funded through a program called the “Partners for the Elderly Program.” Local businesses participate in this

See VINCENT, 38

think about what things are important to them and what they care about the most. Whatever that is, there will be some agency or organization in your community that focuses on that topic,” he said. “It will provide you with the opportunity to serve others, enhance their lives and maximize the good you can do as you share your time and talents.”

Rock’s current role at Lake Area Industry Alliance allows him plenty of time to dedicate to volunteerism. “I am extremely fortunate at this time of my life to have a ‘part-time’ position, which provides me much more time to spend on volunteer activities in SWLA,” he said. “I would encourage those that are retired, about to retire or are only partially employed, to find an opportunity to share their talents and time for the betterment of our community.

“The skills and talents you have learned during your working years do not need to be retired when you retire. They are still useful and can be a great gift to those in need and our community.”

VINCENT

Continued from 37

program and support the center by donating $100 monthly or $1,200 yearly.

All funding for the center financially supports their programs, activities, trips and supplies.

Vincent said the center is vital because the center provides a safe space for older citizens to curate a community.

“It’s the companionship and the sense of family,” she said. “Some of them go home to an empty house.”

By offering her time, Vincent is able to provide patrons with friendship.

“Just to say, ‘Good morning, how are you?,’ that just brightens their faces.”

Volunteering at the center brings Vincent fulfillment.

“It fills my heart,” she said.

For Vincent, volunteering is a mutual exchange. “It gives you such fulfillment to see the smile on their face. It’s a perfect fit for me.”

She said she has learned plenty of life skills from interacting with her friends at the center. “Their mind is a wealth of history. They can tell you about such important skills.”

She said some of the standout skills were farming and canning.

Her love for the elderly stemmed from her time spent with her grandmother. Through her relationship with her, Vincent learned to care and appreciate older people.

“I was able to take care of her until she passed away. I was able to take care of my mother. I was able to take care of my mother-in-law,” she said. “I just have a love for older people, and that gives me the opportunity to give back instead of sitting at home.”

Ada O’Quain: Parents inspired volunteerism

By Emily Burleigh American Press

Ada O’Quain, 31, considers volunteerism “heart work.”

“It’s the stuff that feeds your soul and keeps you going,” she said. “Being able to give back to the community that means so much to me has never felt like work. It has always been a joy.”

O’Quain works at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital as the development officer for the Foundation at LCMH.

When she is not working, O’Quain volunteers with the Catholic Daughters of America at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. She helps as the cheer coach at Immaculate Conception Cathedral School and as a member of the Parent Teacher Organization.

She also assists with the Junior League of Lake Charles.

O’Quain, who has lived in Southwest Louisiana with her family since she was 3 years old, was inspired to volunteer from watching her parents participate in altruistic activities.

“My parents have always been very philanthropic people,” she explained. “They were giving to anyone and everyone they could, whenever they could.”

As a result, she has been volunteering throughout her life. She said she took any and all opportunities to volunteer at school and church.

“My parents, aunts and uncles, and extended family loved to be involved in the community, so it was not a new

thing for me.”

O’Quain believes that the backbone of Southwest Louisiana is the community’s willingness to lend a helping hand.

“Our community thrives on giving to others and leaning on your neighbors in a time of need.”

For O’Quain, the Lake Charles community would not be as vibrant as it currently is without altruism. “This community has always thrived on being able to lean on one another,” she said. “I grew up believing in that, and I know it still holds true to this day.”

It is important for people to know that volunteerism does not have to be a result of monetary donations. “Giving your time and talents can be just as valuable to someone’s cause.”

O’Quain wants people who are considering volunteerism to “get involved!”

“I have never regretted being a part of helping my community. Not once,” she said. “It has always made me a better person to help those in need and to be helped when I am in need.”

Katie Johnson: Volunteering ‘gives me great joy’

By Rita LeBleu American Press

Westlake resident Katie Brown Johnson has been volunteering at Lake Charles Memorial Medical Center for 12 years.

“I do it because it gives me great joy,” she said. “I see people I haven’t seen in years. I get to help others. I feel like I make a difference and it makes me feel good to give back.”

Her smile is contagious and her joy, apparent.

Sometimes she also plays the grand piano in the hospital’s atrium as part of her volunteer gig.

“I’ve been playing since I was 4 years old,” she said, “and I never took a class. I play by ear.”

She remembers the day she saw her first piano.

“My dad’s family is musically tal-

ented,” she said. “We went to Georgia to visit Aunt Alma and she was playing ‘Swanee River’ on a pump organ. I’ll never forget. Someone put me on her lap and I picked out the rest of the song. He told my father to go home and ‘get this child a piano.’ ”

Johnson is a mother to three, grandmother to seven and great-grandmother to 10.

Established in 1968, the mission of the Hospital Auxiliary, of which Johnson is a member, is to render service to Lake Charles Memorial Health System and its patients.

Some of the ways volunteers assist is through visiting with patients and families, delivering reading materials, staffing the front lobby information desk, servicing the waiting rooms, managing the gift shops and working behind the scenes.

Katie Brown Johnson

Nanette Vincent

Ada O’Quain

Monica Broussard: Little Fish Food Pantry brings community together

By Emily Burleigh American Press

Monica Broussard of The Little Fish Food Pantry Ministry in Sulphur created a new outdoor food cabinet project after seeing a great need in the community.

“I’ve always watched the foot traffic when I am out making deliveries or shopping for our ministry,” she said. “Currently, we have five churches in Sulphur that have outdoor food cabinets, but the cabinets are not in the area where I see the most foot traffic.”

In response, she made it a goal to build five new outdoor food cabinets in high-traffic areas.

“I went home and mapped out churches in the areas of foot traffic and began calling them to see if they would be interested in having an outdoor food cabinet,” she said. “Within just a few days I found five churches that wanted the outdoor cabinets.”

The first new cabinet, which was installed at Wesley United Methodist Church, is located within walking distance of her childhood home.

“It was personal to me because there was a lot of need in that area. I built it right in my memory area.”

The home serves as a reminder of her loved ones that have passed.

“I lost my mother, Martha Broussard, when I was 15 and my brother, Captain Alvin Broussard, graduate of Westpoint and a Green Beret, to a helicopter accident,” she said. “I lost my father in 2019.

“When you lose someone, you hold on to their memories. This cabinet was built and placed with my memories.”

There are now seven The Little Fish Food Pantries in Sulphur — Our Lady School,Our Lady of Lasallette, Maplewood Church of Christ, Holy Trinity Episcopal Church,Sulphur First Baptist, Celebration Worship Center and Wesley United Methodist Church.

For Broussard, the construction of the cabinets is a community effort.

“I have met so many people in our community that have been putting food in the outdoor cabinets,” she said. “I love seeing our small-town community coming together to help those in need.”

The Little Fish is a multi-generational ministry that includes Broussard, daughter Ashely Vest and granddaughters Grace and Chloe Vest.

“There is something about having your daughter and your grandkids proud of you and what you’ve accomplished, it sets an example for them. I know this, because my mom being a lay minister, set that example for me,” she said. “Seeing it passed down is what inspires me, knowing that what I’m doing is a reflection on my family.”

The ministry is run out of her home. From there, she has established two programs. One such program is the Brown Bag Meals. She and her family provide 250 brown bag meals to churches in Sulphur and Lake Charles. The second is a grocery assistance program in partnership with local churches and the Sulphur Senior Center. Through this program, 15 elderly and disabled citizens are regularly provided with groceries.

Special to the American Press

The Little Fish is a multi- generational ministry that includes Monica Broussard, daughter Ashely Vest and granddaughters Grace and Chloe Vest.

Joshua Smith: Volunteering is my life’s purpose

By Emily Burleigh American Press

Joshua Smith, 36, is committed to utilizing his businesses — LA Builders, Coffee:30 and UniverSale Group — to benefit the community. “The forefront of every business we own is to serve people,” he said.

For Smith, volunteering is his life’s purpose.

“Volunteerism means everything to me,” he said. “We all have a purpose in life, and for me that purpose is to serve God and to serve people.”

Through Coffee:30, the breakfast, brunch and lunch restaurant, Smith and his team are able to participate in philanthropic projects. “We have a huge focus on philanthropy with Coffee:30,” he explained. “Almost every month we are giving back to a local cause.”

They call this monthly endeavor Coffee for a Cause, and the community of local charities the Coffee30 Crusad-

Care

Our Services:

Breast

Home

ers.

“We helped sponsor and work a lot of events around the Southwest Louisiana area from events such as Fashion Gives Back, Tasting on the Terrace, Rouge et Blanc and the SWLA Community Coat Drive,” he said. “We now still help with all those events through our businesses along with many more.”

Coffee:30 is currently working with several charity organizations and events: Family and Youth Counseling, Banners at McNeese, United Way of

SWLA, American Cancer Society and United Against Human Trafficking.

His business LA Builders served the specific purpose of assisting residents post-hurricanes.

“We own LA Builders that was created after Hurricane Laura to help rebuild our community at affordable prices,” he said.

Smith believes it is important to utilize any resources that one may have to help others. “Life is all about giving. Whether that is giving your time, your money or your knowledge.”

The hardships of 2020 and 2021 inspired Smith and his team to give back.

“The pandemic and the multiple natural disasters that Southwest Louisiana has faced over the past couple of years, and seeing our community come together so strongly, is unlike anything I have ever seen,” he said. “It really showed me by example what true selflessness looks like.”

“It inspired me to do more for our

community. The people of Southwest Louisiana are what really inspires me to give back.”

Community is a vital complement of a strong culture of volunteerism, Smith said.

“Surrounding yourself with other people who give is key, and having good examples of servant leadership to look up to is what really makes the difference,” he explained. “We have an amazing team and support system within all our businesses, and our staff is just as giving as we are and that is very important to us.”

It can be difficult to begin volunteering. Smith believes that the best place to start is with selfless action, big or small. “Take action and get out there and give your time or knowledge. If you don’t have the time, try to give money,” he said. “If you don’t have time or money just show love to someone each day by paying a compliment. It may just be the only nice thing that person hears all day.”

A Commitment to care

Pulmonary

Community

Ear,

Emergency

Endocrinology

Family

Nutrition

Obstetrics

Orthopaedics

Pediatric

Physical

Radiology

Rural

Sleep

Surgical

Wound

Joshua Smith

PROGRESS

Cynthia Roy: Volunteering benefits community, the individual

By Emily Burleigh American Press

The Women’s Commission of Southwest Louisiana celebrated its 33rd anniversary in 2023.

The organization was created in 1990 to create an enriching charitable and educational space for women throughout Southwest Louisiana.

Their overall mission is “to educate, empower and expand the status of women living in Southwest Louisiana.”

Kathy Sonnier, WCSWLA member, explained that organizations like the Women’s Commission are important to nurture women in the community. “As women we need to support one another and help lift each other up to reach our greatest potential,” she said. “The commission serves as a vehicle for which this can occur.”

She said to achieve this, the organization actively works “to lift up women giving recognition to outstanding accomplishments, providing scholar-

ships to non-traditional women seeking degrees, to educate and inspire via workshops and provide a place for networking among other women at our annual fall conference for women.”

Cynthia Roy, WCSWLA advisory/ community events director, said she recognized these efforts soon after joining the organization.

“Since becoming a member of the Women’s Commission, I immediately recognized the hard work and dedi-

cation involved in hosting our annual Fall Conference,” she said. “It provided me with a deeper appreciation for organizations hosting an event.”

She said she stays motivated to be active in the WCSWLA through the organization’s acknowledgment of her work. “My inspiration from volunteering comes from just receiving the sincere gestures of appreciation by the organizers.”

Volunteerism is not new to Roy. Her altruistic journey began with the Lake Area Runners. “I have been volunteering for over 25 years, starting with Lake Area Runners back in the mid’90s,” she said.

She started working with Lake Area Runners after she began bringing her son to their events. “My son was matched through Big Brothers Big Sisters with a young man that was a runner and I would bring him to their events to watch him compete,” she said. “I thought to myself, I might as well do something useful and help out,

so I assisted with registration.”

For Roy, volunteering benefits both the community and the individual. “To me, volunteerism means you are given an opportunity to assist with an event or organization and support their cause, all while meeting people and building new relationships and friendships.”

Selflessly donating one’s resources — talent, funds or time — is an amazing feeling, according to Roy.

“To me, there is no greater feeling than the gesture of giving of yourself first,” she said. “Volunteering is my way of ‘paying it forward.’ I would encourage anyone to make the first step.”

Sonnier said WCSWLA members stay busy with events with other organizations such as ChamberFest, Second Harvest Mobile Market, McNeese Career Closet and the annual WCSWLA Fall Conference.

“We continually volunteer as a group to assist many charitable organizations in our area,” she said.

Cynthia Roy

Amber Harris: Best way to ‘love your neighbor’ is by helping others

By Emily Burleigh American Press

Amber Harris, 30, is called to offer the community aid by her Christian ideologies. “I think it’s important to volunteer because as a Christian, God has called me to humbly serve others in love,” she said. “Volunteering and serving at SC3 has allowed me that opportunity.”

She actively works with the nonprofit organization, Sulphur Christian Community Coalition (SC3), which provides an array of volunteer events and services such as an annual golf tournament, the SC3 Jambalaya Community Cook-Off and Auction, Community Christmas, Christmas store and, recently, a warming center.

In addition to her religion, Harris was taught to be a volunteer through the help of her family. Growing up, she witnessed examples of altruistic behavior that shaped her.

“My parents modeled the impor-

tance of serving and giving back while growing up.” It was important to her to carry these habits into adulthood.

The best way to “love your neighbor as yourself” is by helping those in need in whatever way you can, she said. By taking the time to help those

that are most in need, Harris believes you are embodying the teachings of Christianity.

“Jesus also tells us that when we care for those who are hungry, sick or poor, we are serving him.”

This is true everywhere, but it is

especially prevalent in Southwest Louisiana. After several hurricanes, unprecedented weather events, COVID-19 and an unstable economy, many locals have found themselves in a place of need. “Southwest Louisiana has been through so much in the last few years,” she said.

For Harris, it is vital to put positive energy into a community after being given a helping hand in times of hardship. “I think we’ve all needed and received help at some point, so it’s important to give back to others in our community.”

The best way to be altruistic is to utilize what already surrounds you. “To me, volunteerism means using and giving your gifts, talents, passions, time, resources and the like to a greater cause,” she explained. “If you love to cook, cook a meal or teach a cooking class. If you’re good at a certain subject, tutor some kids.

“Get creative! It’s hard work, but it can be fun.”

Special to the American Press

The nonprofit organization Sulphur Christian Community Coalition (SC3) provides an array of volunteer events and services such as a Christmas store.

THE CHAMBER SWLA / SWLA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE

Series of natural disasters couldn’t stop area from rising up

Special to the American Press

After the devastation of Hurricane Rita in October of 2005, communities leaned upon on another and helped each other rebuild, and their leadership forged bonds to prepare for the next disaster and soften its blow and streamline our response.

In 2020-2021, Southwest Louisiana faced the five consecutive blows of Laura, Delta, an ice-storm, and a widespread flood… during an international pandemic. Collectively, the damage estimate from the two hurricanes of 2020 exceeded $22 billion, but industry was up and running within days.

From 2012 to 2021, workers in Southwest Louisiana built a total of 55 large-scale industrial projects that amounted to $48.13 billion in capital investment.* The booming liquefied natural gas (LNG) market has brought massive industrial construction projects across the five-parish region.

Another 16 industrial projects totaling $7.1 billion in investment are under construction throughout the region, include:

• Two air cargo facilities at Chennault International Airport in Lake Charles;

• The Venture Global LNG plant at Calcasieu Pass;

• Juniper Specialty Products in Calcasieu Parish;

• and a large Canfor Lumber Mill in DeRidder in Beauregard Parish.

Global energy demand has helped turn Southwest Louisiana into a major center for the U.S. LNG export industry. Cheniere LNG, Cameron LNG and Calcasieu Pass-Venture Global LNG were among the first LNG exporting plants to open in America. Others soon followed.

Other larger projects in the works that could – pending final approval –bring in another $74 billion in capital investment to Southwest Louisiana. In Calcasieu Parish, Driftwood LNG, Lake Charles LNG, and Magnolia LNG comprise a huge chunk of this activity. Cameron Parish is the other major hub of activity with Commonwealth LGN,

Delphin LNG, G2 Net-Zero LNG, and Monkey Island in the works.

Five key factors attract these facilities:

1. Concentration of pipelines supplying cheap, abundant natural gas.

2. Existing infrastructure for energy production and transportation.

3. Deep-water shipping access and shallow-draft inland waterways.

4. Skilled workforce trained in heavy industry.

5. A community that welcomes industrial growth in the petrochemical sector.

Another major factor is the cost of living that ranks among the country’s lowest. At 85.4, the composite index score for cost of living in the region ranks well below most major metro areas in the U.S. For example New Orleans is 111.5, Atlanta is 104.1, and Baton Rouge is 97.

By Air

The transportation infrastructure includes not only the Gulf-accessible Port of Lake Charles, but also two industrial airports capable of handling corporate and military aircraft: Chennault International Airport and Lake Charles Regional Airport. Case in point is the new air cargo facility that was

recently finished at Chennault. The $4 million, 10,000-sq.-ft. building could be expanded to 40,000 sq. ft.

“Everything we do here is all about jobs,” says Melton of the airport where 1,500 people work. “We have been putting a lot of money into infrastructure. We are on the cusp of finalizing a deal to build a new paint hangar for a current tenant. That would potentially produce another 200 jobs. That is a huge win for Chennault on multiple fronts.”

Chennault ranks as the No. 3 economic impact producer among the 70 FAA-controlled airports in Louisiana. One of Chennault’s tenants, Northrop Grumman, is vying to win the Department of Defense contract for modification work on the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress bomber. Chennault also houses industrial facilities for Citadel Completions and Landlocked Aviation.

By

Land & By Sea

Infrastructure and available property is key to large-scale developments. Angelo Torre, director of manufacturing at beverage conglomerate Stoli Group, says that a prime build-ready site made Lacassine in Jefferson Davis Parish the perfect spot to place Louisiana Spirits Distillery.

“I come from a history of large greenfield projects, and I am really impressed with Southwest Louisiana,”

Torre says. “We decided to expand our Bayou Rum plant directly off Interstate 10 in Lacassine. A rail center is located right next to us. A lot is happening here because they have the land. We are within two and a half hours of the Port of New Orleans and two and a half hours of the Port of Houston. Just a little farther away is the Port of Mobile. This is a stellar spot.”

Due to early success at the new site, Bayou Rum is expanding, Torre adds. “We are bringing in a new bottling line that will take us from 300 bottles an hour to 3,600 bottles per hour of run time,” he says. “That changes our warehouse size and the number of trucks coming in daily.”

When asked what he would advise corporate executives in other states to do, he said: “If I were a manufacturer, I would likely put my plant right here in Jeff Davis Parish because I would have this giant rail spur adjacent to I-10.” Torre says he also likes the local workforce. “I get a lot of good skills from the dual-enrollment students at SOWELA. They have integrity and work ethic, and they are incredibly tenacious.”

JOBS, JOBS, JOBS

Total construction and permanent jobs generated by the projects:

•Under construction: 6,790.

•Announced projects: 38,399

•Completed projects: 36,812

“Another $40 billion to $50 billion in projects are expected in the next couple of years,” says George Swift, President/CEO of the Chamber SWLA/ SWLA Economic Development Alliance.

“Construction workers travel, so we don’t anticipate any problems in finding enough labor.”

Cheniere LNG was one of the first LNG exporting plants to open in America.

PROGRESS

Chris Trahan: Flying high with Pilots for Patients

By Emily Burleigh American Press

Over the span of a decade, Chris Trahan, 71, volunteered his time, plane and piloting skills to complete 98 Pilots for Patients missions.

For him, along with the 130 active volunteers of Pilots for Patients, travel barriers are simply a challenge, and an easy one at that. Since the organization’s conception 15 years ago, Pilots for Patients, based in Monroe, has completed 6,808 patient flights and flown 2,513,476 nautical miles.

PFP is a non-profit volunteer pilot organization that was established in Louisiana on Dec. 18, 2007. The organization was instituted to provide patients in need of medical treatment that is only available a long distance away free transportation.

Trahan was contacted by PFP in 2010 to become a volunteer pilot.“I had never heard of the organization, but because I was an active pilot and owned an airplane, it seemed like a good fit,” he said.

While apprehensive, he was happy to join. “I had a little trepidation because although I had given many airplane rides … I had never before committed myself to transporting perfect strangers on a lengthy cross-country flight on a firm schedule.”

Despite these reservations, he piloted his first flight on April 29, 2010. He looked back on his first patient, a 79-year-old retired R.N. from southern Arkansas. “I flew her from Ellington Field in Houston to the Monroe airport.

“After departing Ellington, we flew through a layer of clouds where there was some light turbulence,” he recalled. “I was afraid my passenger might be concerned, but she appeared to be perfectly calm. After we climbed above the clouds and the ride became smooth, I asked her if she had ever flown in a small plane before she was diagnosed with cancer.”

The patient’s answer was “no.” This had been her first flight. “I then asked if she was afraid on the first flight and

she replied, ‘No, I was 77 years old and had cancer, so flying in a plane was nothing.’ ”

Volunteering for PFP was a fulfilling experience for Trahan. “Flying those people to and from Houston was one of the most rewarding things I have ever done.” His last mission was in 2020, as his plane was damaged beyond repair as a result of Hurricane Laura.

Through the years, Trahan helped the community in other ways. He actively practiced law in Lake Charles until 2015. He often volunteered his expertise in various positions in the Southwest Louisiana Bar Association. Prior to learning to fly, he also volunteered as a youth sailing instructor with the Lake Charles Yacht Club. He was also an active participant in annual United Way fundraising campaigns.

Trahan said that he never really made the active decision to volunteer; it was like breathing. “I never gave a lot of thought to the idea that I was giving back to my community. It was just something that seemed natural to me.”

Special to the American Press Sharon Thomas, Pilots for Patients board member and founding member, presents Chris Trahan with a leather jacket for completing 50 missions.