SHREVEPORT, La. – The Arc Caddo-Bossier will hold its Annual Leadership Luncheon on Sept. 18 at the Louisiana State University Shreveport Ballroom, featuring keynote speaker Alycia Anderson, a global advocate for disability inclusion and accessibility.
The luncheon, scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., will bring together civic leaders, donors and community supporters to highlight the nonprofit’s mission of expanding opportunities for people with disabilities. Emmy Award-winning journalist Jacque Jovic will serve as host.
Anderson, who was born with Sacral Agenesis and has used a wheelchair since birth, is a motivational speaker and host of the Pushing Forward with Alycia podcast. Her advocacy work has been featured by TEDx, the Los Angeles Times, CNBC and CBS News. She has collaborated with more than 200 organizations, including Microsoft, Netflix, the International Paralympic Committee and Etsy, and appeared as a model in New York Fashion Week 2024.
“We are thrilled to welcome Alycia Anderson as our keynote speaker,” said Kristen Powers, executive director of The Arc Caddo-Bossier. “Her powerful message of inclusion and her work to create more equitable communities aligns perfectly with our mission and the values we’ve upheld for over 70 years.”
Founded in 1954 by parents seeking educational opportunities for their children with disabilities, The Arc Caddo-Bossier now provides a range of programs across the region. Services include workforce development through Frost Industries, the Conly Day Program, child education through the Goldman School and Child Development Centers, equine-assisted services through the GREAT Program, residential programs, community engagement initiatives and advocacy services.
Tickets for the luncheon are $25 and available through the organization’s website.