Making An Impact In The Capital City
A new year brings fresh aspirations and opportunities for growth. Whether you’re diving into self-care or striving to become a better parent, many of us are eager to embrace a new challenge with full force.
If your New Year’s resolution includes becoming more involved in your community, or you’re simply a mom looking for a community, here are some local organizations that are making a meaningful impact in the Capital City and beyond.
The Safety Place – Louisiana’s only nonprofit focused on child safety and injury prevention, The Safety Place includes nationally certified child passenger safety experts who educate families on proper car seat use and installation. They also help young drivers prepare for the road, teach bike safety and pedestrian skills, promote gun safety for kids, encourage safe sleep practices for infants, and offer many more valuable programs.
Louisiana Pediatric Cardiology Foundation – Provides grants and support to local families having to travel regionally and nationally for their children’s open heart surgeries and treatments. They also provide free heart screenings to high school athletes across the Greater Baton Rouge area.
Maddie’s Footprints – Maddie’s Footprints is dedicated to supporting families in the Baton Rouge and Acadiana areas who have experienced miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss. The organization provides guidance toward helpful resources and counseling during difficult times. Financial assistance is also available to help with end-of-life and medical expenses for overwhelmed families.
The Flower Fest – Florists, event attendees, sponsors, vendors, and businesses all play a role in raising funds for this nonprofit that directly impacts research and treatment efforts. Their contributions help fuel the work of dedicated researchers and doctors at St. Jude, striving to find cures and provide peace of mind to children battling childhood cancer.
Keep Tiger Town Beautiful – Citizens around Baton Rouge are encouraged to volunteer with this organization which does litter pickup in our community.
SPED-tacular Kids – Founded by a group of moms who recognized the need for greater inclusivity within the community. Their vision is to create a truly inclusive environment where exceptional children and their families can have meaningful experience and make an impact on the community. Children with disabilities and their families have the opportunity to connect and build relationships through sports and events they wouldn’t normally get to participate in.
The ATA Lopez Foundation– This non-profit started by a local mom is committed to bridging the gaps in support, advocacy, and resources for families of children with special needs. Through a range of free programs, the foundation offers peer-to-peer support, IEP advocacy, waiver guidance, and assistance with preparing for initial evaluations. To promote inclusivity and connection, the foundation also hosts inclusive playdates, mom meet-ups, and community events.
