Latest news with #AlexPerson
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Volunteers for Youth Justice named beneficiary of Artport 2025
SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS)—Volunteers for Youth Justice (VYJ) has been named the beneficiary of Artport 2025, the region's premier art and culture celebration supporting community nonprofits. Each year, Artport transforms an aviation hangar at the Shreveport Regional Airport into a pop-up gallery and immersive art experience. The event aims to highlight local nonprofits, and this year's will be VYJ, which serves children and families in crisis across Northwest Louisiana. 'We are honored and grateful to be chosen as the beneficiary of Artport 2025,' said Alex Person, Director of Community Engagement for Volunteers for Youth Justice. 'This opportunity not only provides vital support for our programs but also raises awareness of the work we do to bring hope, healing, and justice to the most vulnerable members of our community.' Louisiana projects receive Brownfields revitalization funds Proceeds from Artport 2025 will benefit VYJ's restorative and preventative programs, including CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), Youth Programs, TBRI (Trust-Based Relational Intervention) training, Families in Need of Services (FINS), Truancy Assessment Service Center (TASC), and the Family Resource Center (FRC). 'VYJ also has The Harbor, a building with programming and organizations dedicated to providing resources to families in crisis,' a press release stated. 'The funds will directly impact the lives of thousands of children and families by providing critical advocacy, education, and intervention services.' According to the release, Artport 2025 will feature work from local and regional artists, live performances, interactive exhibits, and curated experiences for art lovers and philanthropists. The event is scheduled for Fall 2025, with full details to be announced soon. Non-profit incubator honors former Shreveport councilman 'We believe in the power of community and creativity,' said Artport Director Abigail Simmons. 'VYJ embodies the mission of using compassion and innovation to make a difference, and we are thrilled to support their mission through this year's event.' For more information about Artport 2025 or to become a sponsor or participating artist, go to Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
18-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Junior League's ‘Designer Bag Bingo' draws huge crowd
SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — The Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier hosted their biggest fundraiser of the year on Thursday evening. Around 800 local ladies attend the annual 'Designer Bag Bingo' at Sam's Town Casino and Hotel. 'Everything that we take in at this event goes right back to our community projects. And we have four that we were able to help in the community,' said Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier president Alex Person. The four community projects are Active Kids, Artist for a Day, MAGIC: Mentoring Ambitious Girls to Inspire Change, and Red Apron Pantry. More Local News Attendees played 10 rounds of bingo, where nine designer handbags valued at $300 per bag were awarded. The final round featured the grand prize, a Louis Vuitton handbag. The money raised supports the Junior League's volunteer efforts. 'It's very unique to our area. Women wait all year just to come and have a good time with their friends,' said Person. 'They get good food. They get good laughs, and they may even walk away with a designer bag.' The Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier has been volunteering and making a difference in Shreveport-Bossier since 1933. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
28-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Battle of the Best Gumbo returns with Volunteers for Youth Justice
SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — Volunteers for Youth Justice have announced the return of Battle of the Gumbo Gladiators 2025, the ultimate gumbo cook-off competition. According to a press release the event is set to take place on March 8th at Festival Plaza in downtown Shreveport. Officials say this year's event promises to be bigger and better than ever, bringing together the most talented gumbo teams to compete for the title of Gumbo Gladiator while supporting VYJ's mission to serve children, youth, and families in crisis. Event organizers say as an exciting new addition to this year's festivities, Stalecracker, the internet-famous Louisiana cook and personality, will host an exclusive Pre-Party at 11:00 a.m. before the official event kickoff. Shreveport police invite locals to share Mardi Gras stories with officers Fans will have the chance to meet Stalecracker, enjoy live cooking demonstrations, and get fired up for a day of incredible food, music, and fun! This pre-party is presented by Morris and Dewett Injury Attorney's, Gumbo Gladiators Title Sponsor. 'We are always looking for ways to enhance the Gumbo Gladiators experience, and bringing Stalecracker to the event will add a whole new level of energy. We want to thank Morris and Dewett for bring this pre-party to Gumbo Gladiators.' said Alex Person, Director of Community Engagement for VYJ. 'This event is a celebration of Louisiana culture, food, and community, and we can't wait to see who will take home the top prize this year!' Attendees will enjoy a variety of gumbo styles from competing teams, live entertainment, local vendors, and family-friendly activities throughout the day. Children can enjoy a FREE Children's Area provided by Joey Prudhome State Farm. Proceeds from the event directly benefit VYJ and its programs, ensuring continued support for at-risk youth and families in the Shreveport-Bossier community. Date: March 8Location: Festival Plaza, ShreveportStalecracker Pre-Party: 11:00 Gladiators Tasting: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 $2 admission, 12 and under FREE and $2 per gumbo sample For more information, team registration, or sponsorship opportunities, visit the wesbite or contact Alex Person at Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
