Willson worked at Louisiana Tech as a fundraiser for the College of Engineering and Science when he heard about the opening at United Way in Shreveport. The board interviewed him, liked what they heard and hired him in April 2008.

Summer brings warm weather, blue skies and gives children a break from the everyday school routine of classes and exams. Many kids have spent a significant amount of time in front of their computer screens due to remote learning because of the pandemic.

It's no secret that nature has the power to inspire, invigorate, restore and refresh. Research shows that nature can offer mental health benefits including decreasing stress and relieving anxiety. In fact, incorporating elements of nature into the home has been proven to improve happiness and well-being.

For the first time, United Way kicked off our annual campaign on Oct. 1 without the aid of a large fundraising event. In past years, we would host the Annual Campaign Kickoff event as a rally to start the fundraising season.