SHREVEPORT, La. – United Way of Northwest Louisiana (UWNWLA) marked a milestone on Thursday, May 1, hosting its 40th annual Day of Caring with more than 300 volunteers rolling up their sleeves to support nonprofit agencies across the region.
Sponsored in part by Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana, this year’s Day of Caring—United Way’s largest single-day volunteer event—featured volunteers from over 25 local businesses and organizations who completed 15 projects for 13 nonprofits in the Shreveport-Bossier area.
The “Boots on the Ground”-themed day began with a high-energy pep rally breakfast at Live! Casino & Hotel, where volunteers kicked things off with music from DJ Smiley and a performance of Boots on the Ground by 803Fresh. After the rally, volunteer teams fanned out across the area to tackle projects ranging from painting and organizing to assembling care bags for children in foster care and distributing food.
“Day of Caring 2025 embodied what it means to have ‘boots on the ground’—neighbors coming together to create meaningful change right here in Northwest Louisiana,” said UWNWLA President and CEO LaToria W. Thomas. “Even with a small volunteer fee introduced this year, the turnout was incredible. This is what community looks like.”
Projects were carefully matched to the specific needs of each nonprofit partner, including Geaux 4 Kids, the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, and others. Organizers estimate the volunteer efforts saved local nonprofits approximately $50,235 in labor costs.
Volunteers were also recognized for team spirit and enthusiasm, with the coveted 2025 Day of Caring Spirit Award going to Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana for their standout participation and volunteer energy.
“Thank you to the volunteers for being the boots on the ground for Northwest Louisiana,” said Interim Director of Community Impact Kimberly Williams. “Your service turned compassion into action and made a lasting impact.”
For more information about United Way of Northwest Louisiana and how to get involved in future volunteer efforts, visit unitedwaynwla.org.