2026 Highlights

1st Annual Louisiana Youth Wellness Summit 2026

A Summit for Louisiana Youth by

Governor Landry's Office of Programs and Planning

What an incredible day investing in the future of Louisiana's young people.

The Louisiana Youth Wellness Summit brought together youth from across our state for a day focused on resilience, confidence, purpose, and wellness. Through interactive breakout sessions, youth-led discussions, creative activities, and powerful presentations, participants explored topics including mental health, bullying prevention, healthy relationships, digital safety, recognizing online grooming, self-expression, and leadership.

One of the most inspiring parts of the day was watching young people engage openly, ask thoughtful questions, support one another, and recognize that their voices matter. From the Youth City Lab activities to the youth panel discussions, this summit highlighted the importance of creating spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and empowered.

A special thank you to our presenters, panelists, volunteers, partners, and the many organizations that helped make this event possible. Most importantly, thank you to the youth who showed up ready to learn, lead, and grow. You are the reason this work matters.

As we continue building stronger communities across Louisiana, let us remain committed to promoting the well-being of our children and adolescents by ensuring they have the tools, support, and encouragement needed to thrive.

💛Inspiring Resilience

🩷Building Confidence

💚Living with Purpose

🩵Promoting Wellness

#LouisianaYouthWellnessSummit #LYFE #LouisianaYouth #YouthWellness #MentalHealthMatters #DigitalSafety #YouthLeadership #BuildingResilience #LouisianaChildren #OfficeOfTheGovernor #WellnessWithPurpose

GET A SWIM PLAN!

Get a Swim Plan | Louisiana Department of Health

Children's Cabinet, LCTF, GODA, and LDH ARE PARTNERING TOGETHER FOR A WATER SAFETY/SWIM SAFETY CAMPAIGN

Campaign Kick-Off was May 6, 2026 and will continue through Labor Day September 7, 2026

Please be mindful of these safety tips as we enter into summer. Enjoy the water but also be sure to exercise safety. For more tips and resources, visit:

https://partnersforfamilyhealth.org/water-safety/

flyer swim plan.pdf

TEACHER LEADER SUMMIT: ATENDANCE TRACK

May 28, 2026

Honored to participate in the Teacher Leader Summit Attendance Track alongside dedicated education and community leaders focusedon improving student attendance and student success across Louisiana.

Chronic absenteeism impacts not only academic achievement, but also connection, stability, and long-term opportunity for our children.

As Executive Director of the Louisiana Children’s Cabinet, I was proud to present an official proclamation from Governor Jeff Landry and the State of Louisiana recognizing “The Power of Presence: Improving Student Attendance.” This proclamation highlights the importance of collaboration between schools, families, agencies, and communities to ensure students are engaged, supported, and present in the classroom every day.

It was inspiring to stand alongside partners from across the state who are committed to strengthening outcomes for Louisiana’s children and families through innovation, partnership, and leadership. Every day matters, every student matters, and together we can continue building stronger schools and stronger communities.

#TeacherLeaderSummit #LouisianaEducation #PowerOfPresence #StudentAttendance #LouisianaChildrensCabinet #LDOE #Louisiana #EducationLeadership

CASA DAY AT THE CAPITOL

May 27, 2026

Honored to participate in Louisiana CASA Day at the Capitol celebrating the incredible advocates across Louisiana who work tirelessly to support children in foster care. CASA volunteers serve as a voice for children during some of the most difficult moments of their lives, helping ensure that every child has someone advocating for their safety, stability, and future.

As Executive Director of the Louisiana Children’s Cabinet, I was proud to present the official Governor’s Proclamation recognizing CASA Day at the Capitol and the life-changing work being done by CASA programs throughout our state. The day also included special recognition from the Governor’s Office for two outstanding individuals making a powerful impact in Louisiana’s child advocacy community.

Congratulations to James Barse of CASA Jefferson, recognized as Volunteer Advocate of the Year, and Ja’Nika Stanley of Capital Area CASA, recipient of the Heart of Advocacy Award. Their dedication, compassion, and service reflect the very best of Louisiana and the mission of CASA.

Thank you to Amanda Moody, to all CASA staff, volunteers, advocates, and partners who continue standing up for children and families across our state. Advocacy truly is a superpower.

#CASADayAtTheCapitol #CASA #ChildAdvocacy #LouisianaChildrensCabinet #FosterCareAwareness #VolunteerAdvocate #LouisianaChildren

Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Awareness Day/Month

May 5, 2026

Yesterday, our staff wore red in support of May 5th as Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Awareness Day and May as the awareness month. We are honored to stand with others in the movement to end violence against Indigenous women.

Disability Awareness Day

May 4, 2026

Thank you Liam Doyle for your leadership in making Disability Awareness Day at the Capitol such a meaningful and successful event!

Youth Challenge Program Tour

May 1, 2026

Today, Jolie V Williamson, Executive Director of Children’s Programs and the Louisiana Children’s Cabinet, joined Ursula Anderson, Executive Director of the Louisiana Children’s Trust Fund, and Dr. Amanda Shackelford, Executive Director of Louisiana Youth for Excellence, for a visit to the Youth Challenge Program in Pineville, Louisiana.

The visit provided an opportunity to see firsthand the powerful impact this program is making in the lives of young people. The Youth Challenge Program continues to stand out as a transformational model, helping students build discipline, confidence, leadership skills, and a renewed sense of purpose. The structure, mentorship, and opportunities provided are truly changing trajectories and opening doors for success.

What was most evident throughout the tour was the dedication of the staff. Their commitment to these students goes far beyond the classroom, creating an environment of accountability, encouragement, and growth. The passion and professionalism of the team are a direct reflection of why this program is so successful.

The program is run with excellence at every level, and it is clear that the students are not only supported, but genuinely invested in. Louisiana is fortunate to have such a strong and effective program serving our youth.

Thank you to the entire Youth Challenge Program team in Pineville for your hospitality and for the incredible work you do every day to uplift and empower the next generation. Governor Jeff Landry's Office of Programs and Planning Youth Challenge Program Louisiana National Guard Youth Challenge Program YCP Camp Beauregard Post Residential.

30th Annual Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Conference

It was an honor to speak at the 30th Annual GRG Conference. With over 365 attendees, the event was a powerful gathering filled with meaningful conversations, valuable information, and outstanding speakers dedicated to supporting families.

Together, we continue to strengthen our efforts to support families raising children and ensure they have the resources they need.

Mark your calendars now for next year’s conference on April 23, 2027.

Hearts of Hope-Center for Sexual Trauma in Opelousas for Pinwheel Planting and Proclamation Presentation, April 14, 2026

Executive Directors Jolie V. Williamson of the Children’s Cabinet, Ursula Anderson of the Louisiana Children’s Trust Fund, and Dr. Amanda Shackelford of Louisiana Youth for Excellence joined community partners at Hearts of Hope-Center for Sexual Trauma in Opelousas for a Pinwheel Planting and Proclamation presentation led by District Attorney Chad Pitre, proclaimed April as Sexual Assault Awareness month and Child Abuse Prevention month. The event served as a meaningful reminder of our shared commitment to child abuse prevention and the importance of working together to ensure every child in Louisiana is safe, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive.

Child_Abuse_Prevention_Month_signed_2026.pdf

Child Abuse Prevention month

On April 2nd our staff wore blue in honor of April being proclaimed as Child Abuse Prevention Month in the State of Louisiana. We proudly stand with Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana in raising awareness and supporting efforts to protect every child. Executive Director Jolie V. Williamson of the Children’s Cabinet and Ursula Anderson of the Louisiana Children’s Trust Fund had the honor of presenting the official proclamation to Sherrard Crespo, Executive Director of Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana, in recognition of their continued leadership and commitment to prevention across our state.

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.pdf

Louisiana Youth Outdoor Engagement Month

We are proud to recognize the official proclamation of April 2026 as Louisiana Youth Outdoor Engagement Month. This proclamation highlights the critical role outdoor activity plays in supporting the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of Louisiana’s youth, while also enhancing academic performance and overall development. As spring provides the perfect opportunity for outdoor engagement, this serves as a statewide call to encourage families, schools, and communities to prioritize time outside, fostering healthier, more connected, and resilient young people.

Hope House

Child Advocacy Center

On March 13th, Executive Director of Children’s Programs and the Children’s Cabinet, Jolie V. Williamson, joined Louisiana Children’s Trust Fund Executive Director Ursula Anderson for a visit to Hope House Child Advocacy Center in Covington. Executive Director Thomas Mitchell led a tour, highlighting the center’s vital work supporting children and families through compassionate care and protection services.

Lafayette High's Future Business Leaders of America at the State Capitol

On February 14th-FBLA students from Lafayette High School recently visited the Louisiana State Capitol in recognition of their outstanding achievements. During the visit, students were presented with an official proclamation signed by Governor Jeff Landry declaring February 8–14, 2026 as National FBLA Week, recognized nationwide.

Members of the FBLA Executive Committee, along with additional chapter members, toured the Governor’s Office and the State Capitol, gaining a firsthand look at state government.

FBLA Lafayette High is proudly ranked Top 10 in the Nation as a Champion Chapter for 2025, an incredible accomplishment that reflects the leadership, dedication, and hard work of these students and their advisor.

Congratulations to FBLA Lafayette High for representing their school and Louisiana with excellence on a national stage.

2026 Louisiana CASA Executive Leadership Workshop-February 3rd

Honored to present at the 2026 Louisiana CASA Executive Leadership Workshop, where executive directors and board leaders from across the state came together for a day of connection, collaboration, and strategic leadership.

During my session, I shared updates on the Governor’s Office programs and statewide initiatives focused on improving outcomes for children and families across Louisiana. CASA leaders play a critical role in ensuring children involved in the child welfare system have strong advocates, and I appreciate the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue with such dedicated leaders.

Thank you to Louisiana CASA for the invitation and for your continued commitment to serving children and families across our state

St. Cletus Catholic School

Director of Children’s Programs and Children’s Cabinet, Jolie Williamson, spent the day reading to the Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd graders at St. Cletus Catholic School in Gretna, LA!

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