BOSSIER CITY, La. — The Arc Caddo-Bossier will hold its 2026 Leadership Luncheon Sept. 9 at Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana, featuring entrepreneur, animator and disability advocate Dani Bowman as keynote speaker.
The annual event will run from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 711 Live Casino Blvd., with doors opening at 11 a.m. The luncheon brings together civic leaders, sponsors and donors in support of the organization’s programs for people with disabilities.
Bowman, who has autism, is an entrepreneur, animator, educator and public speaker focused on expanding opportunities for people who are neurodivergent. She founded DaniMation at age 14 to teach animation and create professional pathways for young people and young adults who are neurodiverse. The program expanded internationally with DaniMation UK in 2019, and Bowman has taught animation to more than 3,500 students.
Bowman holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in animation and an MBA in global strategy and leadership. She has produced 16 original animated short films that premiered at San Diego Comic-Con and is a cast member of Netflix’s “Love on the Spectrum U.S.”
“When we look at Dani, we see exactly what we hope for every person we serve: the chance to become the best version of themselves, with nothing standing in the way. Representation like hers helps break down the barriers that too often hold people back,” The Arc Caddo-Bossier CEO Kristen Powers said.
Tickets are $75 per person, and sponsorship opportunities remain available. Registration is scheduled to close at 11:30 a.m. Sept. 9.
The Arc Caddo-Bossier was founded in 1954 by parents seeking more opportunities for their children with disabilities. The organization now serves people of all ages through programs that include workforce development, education, residential services, equine-assisted services, advocacy and community engagement.