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.

From day one, January 8, 2024, we hit the ground running with a clear mission and steadfast dedication. We promptly launched the LCTF grant portal, LYFE Grant Portal, led impactful campaigns and initiatives, hosted the annual Child Abuse Prevention Conference, reformed the Children’s Cabinet legislation, as well as the LYFE SRAE Curriculum, and began strengthening key relationships across the state.

As someone who focuses on practical solutions, it quickly became clear that the lack of collaboration between agencies was a significant issue. That’s why I’ve advocated for a straightforward approach: “It’s time to step out of your comfort zones, reach across the aisle, and work together.” Every role—whether a social worker, judge, teacher, court-appointed advocate, healthcare provider, or police officer—is vital and contributes to our shared goals. However, we can only make real progress by overcoming our own limitations and fostering greater communication and cooperation.

Our ultimate GOAL is to ensure that children and families in LOUISIANA have the opportunity to receive the QUALITY of LIFE they DESERVE! This is achieved by breaking down unnecessary barriers, sharing essential data, and prioritizing the well-being of our community and STATE. By working together with a unified purpose, we can make a significant and lasting difference.

Jolie V. Williamson

Director of Children's Programs

Executive Director of the Louisiana Children's Cabinet

Jolie V. Williamson serves in the Office of Governor Jeff Landry as Director of Children’s Programs and Executive Director of the Louisiana Children’s Cabinet, an appointed position within the Governor’s Office. In this role, she leads and coordinates statewide efforts focused on strengthening Louisiana’s children, youth, and families and works closely with state agencies, community organizations, educators, service providers, and other partners to advance collaborative solutions for children across the state.

Prior to joining the Governor’s Office, Williamson spent more than 13 years as a Louisiana public school educator, teaching English, social studies, speech, drama, and debate. She also served as Head Speech Coach at Lafayette High School, where she was recognized as the 2023 National Speech & Debate Association Louisiana District New Coach of the Year. Her years in the classroom and working directly with young people continue to shape her approach to public service and her commitment to ensuring that children are supported by strong families, caring adults, and healthy communities.

Williamson earned a Master of Science in Interpersonal and Organizational Communication, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and English, and her Secondary Education Certification from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

A native of Louisiana and longtime advocate for children and families, Williamson believes meaningful change happens when government, communities, schools, and families work together. Through her work with the Louisiana Children’s Cabinet, she remains committed to bringing partners to the table, elevating effective approaches, and helping build a Louisiana where every child has the opportunity to thrive.