SHREVEPORT, La. — More than 400 volunteers from 38 businesses and organizations participated in United Way of Northwest Louisiana’s annual Day of Caring on May 14, completing projects that saved local nonprofit organizations an estimated $55,691.88 in labor costs.
Presented in part by Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana, the annual volunteer initiative brought participants together to complete 23 projects benefiting 21 nonprofit agencies across Northwest Louisiana.
As the organization’s largest single-day volunteer event, Day of Caring connects businesses, civic groups and community volunteers with nonprofits that need assistance completing projects that might otherwise go unfinished. This year’s efforts included facility improvements, landscaping, meal preparation for families staying at Ronald McDonald House, assembling disaster preparedness kits and organizing donated supplies.
The event began with a Mardi Gras-themed pep rally breakfast at Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana before volunteers departed for project sites throughout the region. Participants also joined in a domestic violence awareness activity during the day.
Following the volunteer projects, participants returned to Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana for the inaugural Day of Caring Afterparty, which featured live entertainment, raffle prizes and networking opportunities to recognize volunteers’ contributions.
“Day of Caring is about far more than completing projects. It’s about reminding our community what is possible when people choose to show up for one another,” said LaToria W. Thomas, president and CEO of United Way of Northwest Louisiana. “Every volunteer, nonprofit partner, sponsor, and community member who participated demonstrated that lasting change begins with connection.”
United Way of Northwest Louisiana recognized Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana as the presenting sponsor of the 2026 event. Willis Knighton Health System and Brookshire’s Grocery Company served as major sponsors.
The organization also presented its 2026 Day of Caring Spirit Award to AEP SWEPCO in recognition of the team’s enthusiasm, creativity and volunteer efforts throughout the event.
United Way of Northwest Louisiana said Day of Caring has served the region for more than 40 years by bringing together businesses, nonprofit organizations and community volunteers to support projects that strengthen local communities.