Bienvenue! Welcome to our website!
We’re thrilled to introduce you to the dynamic world of Louisiana’s Children’s Programs. Our mission is to support and uplift the young minds of our state through a range of dedicated initiatives.
The Children’s Cabinet is a cornerstone of our efforts, working to coordinate and improve services for children and families across Louisiana. This office brings together state agencies and community organizations to ensure that every child has access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
The Louisiana Children's Trust Fund plays a crucial role in preventing child abuse and neglect. Through grants and funding, this program supports community-based organizations and projects aimed at enhancing the safety and well-being of our children.
Louisiana Youth for Excellence is dedicated to empowering young people to achieve their full potential. By fostering leadership, education, and career opportunities, this initiative helps guide our youth toward a bright and successful future.
Explore our website to learn more about these programs and discover how we’re making a difference in the lives of Louisiana’s children and families. Your support and involvement can help us build a better future for every child in our state.
Meet the TEAM
Louisiana Children's Cabinet
Director of Children's Programs and Louisiana Children's Cabinet
Jolie V. Williamson has dedicated her life to serving Louisiana’s children, families, and communities. From volunteering at the age of 13 at Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center every Saturday for two years and reading to children at Barnes and Noble Book stores on Sundays to her current role as Director of Children's Programs and Executive Director of the Louisiana Children’s Cabinet, her mission has always centered on service.
A Christian guided by strong family values, Jolie believes in prioritizing the well-being of children. She holds a Bachelor’s in Political Science and a Master’s in Interpersonal and Organizational Communication. She served as a public-school teacher for 14 years, earning accolades such as the Louisiana New Coach of the Year from the National Speech and Debate Association.
Beyond the classroom, she has taught martial arts, specializing in self-defense and life skills for children and adults. She is also a gold medalist in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a former katana stunt performer. Her work with children in both education and martial arts has given her a unique, hands-on perspective on the needs of families and youth across the state.
Whether teaching, mentoring, or advocating, Jolie brings a unique, hands-on perspective to child welfare and remains deeply committed to uplifting Louisiana’s future generations.
Louisiana Children's Trust Fund
Executive Director of the Louisiana Children's Trust Fund
ursula.anderson@la.gov
(225) 219-7560
Executive Secretary of the Louisiana Children's Cabinet and Louisiana Children's Trust Fund
225-342-2245
Louisiana Youth For Excellence
Executive Director
amanda.shackelford@la.gov
(225) 342-3423
Program Manager
tressa.dunbar@la.gov
(225) 219-7552
Program Manager
Rachael.Dorman@la.gov
(225) 342-2712
Director of Children's Programs and Executive Director of the Louisiana Children's Cabinet, Jolie V. Williamson speaking to the Legislative Youth Advisory Council in the Senate Chambers on July 29, 2024.
April 3, 2025 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.