Volunteers for Youth Justice (VYJ) was recognized as the 2024 Philanthropy of the Year by the Young Professional Initiative (YPI), at their annual 40 Under 40 Gala on Friday, December 6, 2024. This distinguished honor celebrates the organization’s impactful contributions to the Shreveport-Bossier community and culminated in a $1,000 grant and check presentation and ongoing support from YPI members.
The recognition is part of YPI’s annual initiative to spotlight and uplift a local nonprofit that embodies community engagement and excellence. As the 2024 recipient, VYJ has been the beneficiary of YPI’s volunteer and marketing support throughout the year to further advance our mission of providing a caring community for children, youth, and families in crisis.
The gala also recognized Alexandria Savage Coner, a VYJ board member and KSLA News 12 host, as one of the 2024 40 Under 40 honorees. Her dedication to service and leadership reflects VYJ’s values of advocacy and empowerment.
“We are deeply honored to be selected as YPI’s Philanthropy of the Year,” said Kelli Todd, Executive Director of Volunteers for Youth Justice. “This recognition amplifies the impact of our programs and underscores the importance of partnerships in building brighter futures for the children, youth, and families we serve.”
VYJ serves the Shreveport-Bossier area through programs like Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), Families in Need of Service (FINS), My Community Cares (MCC), Truancy Assessment and Service Center (TASC), Youth Empowerment Center (YEC), and Youth Programs. These initiatives address critical needs such as advocacy for children in foster care, truancy prevention, family support, youth development, and more.
Founded in 2004, YPI works alongside the Greater Shreveport and Bossier Chambers of Commerce to empower young professionals and recognize nonprofit organizations that make a difference. The Philanthropy of the Year award is vital to their mission to grow and strengthen the local community.