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Take home a laptop courtesy of James M. Cox Foundation, Cox Communications, and PCs for People! Are you looking to boost your digital skills and access new opportunities in 2025? Mark your calendars for an exciting and impactful community event! The Digital Literacy Summit  is coming to Baton Rouge, and we’re thrilled to invite you to join us at the Eden Park Library  on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM . Event Highlights The Digital Literacy Summit is more than just an event—it’s an opportunity to empower yourself and your community. Here’s what you can look forward to: 1. Free Laptop Giveaway* We’re giving away free laptops to eligible participants to ensure you have the tools to thrive in the digital world! Whether for school, work, or personal development, this giveaway is designed to help bridge the technology gap for individuals and families. *MUST PRE-APPLY 2. Digital Literacy Workshops Throughout the summit, there will be hands-on workshops designed to teach essential digital skills, such as: Getting Started with Your Computer Window Operating Systems Downloading Programs, Browsers, and starting Email Accounts Whether you’re a beginner or looking to sharpen your existing skills, there’s something for everyone! 3. One-on-One Tech Support Have questions about your device or need guidance on specific technology? Local tech experts will be available to assist you with personalized support. Who Should Attend? This event is perfect for: Students and job seekers looking to improve their computer skills. Parents and families interested in learning how to stay safe and productive online. Anyone eager to learn new tech skills or access essential tools like laptops. Note:  Laptop giveaway eligibility requires registration and attendance at a workshop session. Be sure to arrive early and check in at the registration desk! Event Details at a Glance What:  Digital Literacy Summit and Laptop Giveaway When:  Friday, January 17, 2025, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Where:  Eden Park Library, 5131 Greenwell Springs Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Cost:  FREE Why Digital Literacy Matters In today’s fast-moving digital world, understanding technology is no longer optional—it’s essential. From finding employment to staying connected with loved ones, digital literacy is the key to unlocking opportunity. Unfortunately, not everyone has the resources they need. This summit aims to close that gap by providing free tools, knowledge, and support to help our community thrive. How This Event Was Made Possible The Futures Fund Digital Literacy Summit during MLK Fest was made possible through the support of fantastic organizations of Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation, ExxonMobil, Huey & Angelina Wilson Foundation, James M. Cox Foundation, PCs for People, Cox Communications, Capital One, UNUM, and Red Cake Events. How to Register Spaces are limited, so register today to secure your spot and ensure eligibility for the laptop giveaway. Register Online:   https://mlkdigitallit.paperform.co/ Call for More Information:  (225) 434-0515 Ext 2 Email: helena@thewallsproject.org Spread the Word! Help us reach as many people as possible by sharing this event with friends, family, and neighbors. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected Baton Rouge! We can’t wait to see you at the Digital Literacy Summit  at Eden Park Library. Let’s step into 2025 with the skills and tools to succeed!

Hustle and Grow student receives a certificate at the end of their experience. Hustle & Grow Spring 2025 offers an engaging opportunity for young individuals interested in environmental stewardship, sustainability, and urban agriculture. This program aims to equip participants with essential skills while fostering a sense of community and commitment to urban agriculture. Program Overview Hustle & Grow focuses on teaching practical skills in urban ag farming, gardening, and sustainable practices. Participants will contribute to their local community by cultivating fresh produce while gaining hands-on experience and knowledge in eco-conscious living. Benefits of Participation Hands-On Experience : Participants will learn urban ag farming techniques, including planting, harvesting, composting, and sustainable agricultural practices. Skill Development : The program emphasizes teamwork, leadership, and essential gardening skills. Community Contribution : Participants will help provide fresh produce to local families, creating a tangible community impact. Educational Stipend : An education stipend of $450 will be provided to support further agricultural education. Eligibility Criteria Youth aged 13 to 18 years old. An interest in environmental sustainability and a willingness to learn and engage in teamwork. No prior gardening experience is required. Must have reliable transportation to and from BREC's Howell Community Park. Program Details Location : Baton Roots Community Farm, located inside BREC’s Howell Park at 5509 Winbourne Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA. Schedule : Weekly sessions will take place on Thursdays from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM, beginning in February and concluding in May 2025. Key Program Features Weekly Workshops and Fieldwork : Participants will engage in structured training and hands-on activities at Baton Roots Community Farm. Expert Guidance : Participants will work with experienced urban ag farmers and environmental advocates. Interactive Activities : The program includes engaging activities such as garden building, eco-crafts, and food preparation sessions. Application Process Interested individuals are invited to apply by completing the program’s application form. The submission deadline is January 8, 2025 . For additional information or questions, contact Mitchell Provensal at mitchell@thewallsproject.org . Hustle & Grow Spring 2025 provides a unique platform for youth to engage in meaningful work, learn valuable skills, and contribute to the well-being of their community. This initiative supports the next generation in fostering a deeper connection to sustainable agriculture and environmental responsibility.

Teen presents their pitch at JOLTcon Spring 2023 As part of its commitment to fostering innovation and inspiring young minds, JOLTcon is excited to announce two dynamic events this fall, hosted at Southern University. These events offer local youth aged 12-18 an incredible opportunity to develop their creative problem-solving skills while engaging in an environment of learning and collaboration. See related story: Spring 2023 JOLTcon Recap Semester Theme: Use Creativity & Technology to Save the World This semester's JOLTcon theme, "Use Creativity & Technology to Save the World," focuses on actionable ways to address pressing issues, particularly the changing weather. The events aim to empower young individuals with knowledge and skills that have a positive impact on our environment and society. Event Details: 1. JOLTcon Creative Solutions Workshop - September 23rd, 2023 The first event, scheduled for September 23rd, invites young participants to delve into the world of creative solutions. Through interactive workshops, attendees will gain valuable skills to address real-world challenges around changing weather. Learning from experts in the fields of tree planting and microplastics, students will jumpstart into planning for innovative solutions f or the next month's competition. 2. JOLTcon Solutions Competition - October 21st, 2023 Building on the skills acquired during the first event, participants are invited back on October 21st to take part in the JOLTcon Solutions Competition. This competition offers teens the chance to showcase their innovative ideas and compete for a cash prize. It's an opportunity for young minds to shine and put their creative solutions to the test. Workshop Highlights: Both events will feature engaging and informative guest speakers, covering vital topics such as carbon capture with trees and understanding microplastics. Following these discussions, participants will engage in guided workshops where they will learn how to synthesize effective solutions, construct compelling pitches, and bring their ideas to life in tangible ways. Beyond the invaluable teamwork and communication training, attendees will also develop tangible hard skills including idea generation and pitch writing, creating mock websites or app designs to visualize concepts effectively, and harnessing the power of photography for impactful storytelling. Join us this fall for JOLTcon's Creative Solutions Events and be a part of the journey to inspire, innovate, and make a positive change! JOLTcon and events like it were made possible by the support and sponsorship from: Cox Communications, Giraphic Prints, Capital One, Huey & Angelina Wilson Foundation, BASF, Santandeer Consumer USA, Microsoft, and Aetna/CVS.

In the heart of Southern University T.T. Allain, a vibrant event unfolded this fall, bringing together passionate young minds to tackle some of our planet's most pressing challenges. JOLTcon, a unique initiative aiming to merge creativity and technology for a sustainable future, hosted two impactful Saturdays on September 23rd and October 21st. The event was not just about ideas; it was a celebration of innovative thinking, empowering youth aged 12-18 to develop creative solutions that can truly make a difference. Fueling Creativity with Knowledge The journey began on September 23rd when eager participants gathered to explore the theme of the semester: "Use Creativity & Technology to Save the World." Two thought-provoking prompts guided their creative endeavors: Carbon capture with trees and Understanding microplastics. The event was not just a forum for ideas but a platform to cultivate actionable solutions. Expert speakers delved into these crucial topics, inspiring young minds and equipping them with knowledge to help our earth. Empowering Through Skills JOLTcon didn’t stop at inspiration. Participants were immersed in a series of hands-on workshops, designed to hone their skills and transform their ideas into reality. Through engaging sessions, attendees learned how to craft compelling pitches, design mock websites, and apps, and even harness the power of photography to tell impactful environmental stories. More than just a competition, JOLTcon was a learning ground, fostering teamwork, communication, and innovation. The Grand Finale: Solutions Competition The culmination of this enriching experience arrived on October 21st with the Solutions Competition, where five teams, comprising 1-5 talented individuals, pitched their groundbreaking ideas to help our earth. With an enticing $500 cash prize at stake, the competition was fierce. The presentations were diverse, ranging from social movements to tech innovations and entrepreneurial ventures, showcasing the multifaceted creativity of the youth participants. Braylan's Lawncare Service Pitch wins big at JOLTcon 2023 Solutions Competition! An Unforgettable Host: Boo Milton Adding a touch of charisma and energy to the event was our lively MC, Boo Milton. With their infectious enthusiasm and charisma, Boo kept the audience engaged, ensuring that every moment was both entertaining and informative. Generous Support from Our Sponsors JOLTcon was made possible thanks to the generous support of our sponsors: Cox Communications, Giraphic Prints, Southern University, Microsoft, and Lamar Graphics. Additional semester-long support came from Capital One, Charles Lamar Family Foundation, Huey & Angelina Wilson Foundation, BASF, Santandeer Consumer USA, Microsoft, and Aetna/CVS., Their commitment to empowering young minds and fostering innovation played a vital role in the success of this event. Exciting Raffle Prizes On October 21st, attendees were in for an additional treat with a series of exciting raffle prizes. Among these were generous laptop donations from Cox Communications, won by two lucky individuals, providing them with the tools to further their creative endeavors. Additionally, five fortunate winners walked away with 20 Southern University Football Game tickets, allowing them to enjoy the thrill of the game. To top it off, a pair of Beats Flex headphones found a new home with one lucky recipient, enhancing their audio experience and inspiring future innovations. Looking Forward: A Brighter, Greener Future JOLTcon 2023 was more than just a series of events; it was a testament to the power of youth, creativity, and technology in shaping a sustainable tomorrow. By nurturing the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers, JOLTcon not only encouraged proactive engagement with environmental issues but also demonstrated the incredible potential within each young mind. As we bid farewell to this inspiring event, we are left with a sense of hope and optimism. The solutions presented at JOLTcon remind us that the future is in capable hands, hands that are not just dreaming of a better world but actively working to create it. Here’s to the young visionaries, the change-makers, and the environmental stewards - may your creativity continue to light the path towards a greener, more sustainable future for us all.

A million thanks of our incredible partners at Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation for organizing such an impactful national day of service on November 9th. In partnership with The Walls, a mighty group of store leaders from across DFW came together for a multi-faceted So. Dallas neighborhood beautification project.  The hub of the work occurred at the Cornerstone Crossroads Academy (501c3) at the former Phyllis Wheatley School built in 1922. Cornerstone is a second-chance school for people 18-26 years old to go back and finish their high school education. In addition to serving some of the most vulnerable opportunity youth, Cornerstone is also renovating the entire historic campus one building at a time.  See the walkthrough of the Cornerstone Crossroads Academy below: Team Sprouts helped move the Cornerstone mission one step closer to achieving success by priming, painting, and installing plywood art boards to cover all the broken windows at the school. Additionally, Sprouts team members lent a hand to the surrounding neighborhood by leading a litter cleanup throughout Wheatley Place including along the historic graveyard.  Lastly, ‘Sproutees’ used their extra time before lunch to help collaborate with our partners at Texas Trees Foundation and the Kellogg Alumni Club of Dallas to build outdoor seating in the newly planted fruit orchard on the campus. This previously unused land is now transformed into a tranquil urban, and future fruit-bearing oasis for the Wheatley Place community to gather.  Thank you everyone for putting this event together and making magic happen!

We’re thrilled to highlight the incredible generosity of the James M. Cox Foundation, Cox Communications, and PCs for People, whose donation of 50 laptops made it possible to host our Digital Literacy Summit this October at the Sow Good Community Resource Festival. Thanks to their support, we brought together a community eager to learn and empowered attendees to tap into essential digital resources that can open doors to education, job opportunities, and social connectivity. Bridging the Digital Divide This significant donation of laptops represents more than just technology—it’s a bridge to a world of digital opportunities. For many in our community, access to technology can be a barrier, preventing individuals from realizing their potential in an increasingly digital world. These laptops, distributed to attendees in need, are tools for advancement, enabling access to educational resources, online services, and meaningful connections. "Getting this laptop is such a game-changer. Now I can keep up with school, apply for jobs, and just stay connected. It’s one less thing to worry about, and I’m really grateful for it—it honestly makes a huge difference."- Laptop Giveaway Recipient  Inspiration from Leaders We were honored to have Erin Monroe, Cox’s Market Vice President of Greater Louisiana, speak at the summit. Erin shared her insights on staying connected in today’s world and inspired attendees with her passion for bridging the digital divide.She also introduced Cox’s Connect to Compete and ConnectAssist programs, both of which run on its fiber-powered network and provide discounted internet options for households needing affordable connectivity. These programs, aimed at low-income families and individuals, underscore Cox’s commitment to creating equitable digital access and support our mission of connecting the community to critical digital resources. Hands-On Help from Cox Volunteers The logistics of our festival were extensive, covering multiple locations with resource giveaways and interactive workshops. Cox’s support extended beyond financial and in-kind contributions, with 18 enthusiastic volunteers on-site to help guide, support, and ensure the smooth operation of the event. Their dedication and hands-on involvement made a powerful impact, allowing us to reach more people effectively. Looking Ahead The impact of this donation and the engagement of our partners will extend far beyond a single day. By reducing barriers to digital access, we are fostering a community where everyone has the tools and support they need to thrive in a digital-first world. This collaboration exemplifies the power of partnerships in driving community-wide change, and we look forward to building on this momentum to further our mission of digital inclusivity. With deep gratitude to the James M. Cox Foundation, Cox Communications, PCs for People, and all the volunteers who made this event a success, we continue to look toward a future where everyone has access to the resources they need to succeed.

We are thrilled to share the exciting unveiling of the VOTE mural , a vibrant and powerful piece of public art created by the incredibly talented Bryson Boutte. Commissioned by the Power Coalition for Equity and Justice , this mural is more than just an aesthetic addition to our community—it’s a tool for empowerment. Strategically located on the wall of a building soon to house a ghost kitchen for local chefs, this mural features a dynamic QR code that directs passersby to essential voter education resources. With a simple scan, residents can access their polling locations, sample ballots, amendment information, and key voting dates for each upcoming national and local election. As the Associate Director of Public Art and Placemaking for The Walls Project, I take immense pride in our decade-long dedication to North Baton Rouge. Our mission has always been to use art as a catalyst for commerce and collective power among our residents. This project, hosted by Jason Hughes, founder of Project 70805 , exemplifies the seamless blend of economic development, community engagement, and advocacy. The soon-to-be ghost kitchen behind this mural will provide much-needed infrastructure for local chefs to grow their small businesses, further driving economic vitality in our community. Through this initiative, we are not just decorating walls; we are building a stronger, more informed, and empowered 70805. Thank you to everyone who attended the unveiling and for your ongoing commitment to our community. Together, let’s continue to inspire change, one vote at a time. Stay connected, stay informed, and let’s make every vote count!

On October 12, 2024, BRCC’s Acadian Campus became a hub of learning, connection, and opportunity at the Sow Good Community Resource Festival. Among the many highlights was a Digital Literacy Summit  and Laptop Giveaway , which brought together community members to learn essential digital skills and receive much-needed technology for their personal and professional development. This event was made possible by the support of Cox Communications, Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation, Capital One, Huey & Angelina Wilson Foundation, UNUM, ExxonMobil, Louisiana Healthcare Connections, and many more. The Digital Literacy Summit had attendees participating in multiple dynamic workshops to enhance their digital fluency. Courses on Keyboarding and Email , Everyday AI , and Navigating Louisiana Workforce Commission's HIRE Website  provided hands-on training to help participants grow in the increasingly digital workforce. In total, 25 people walked away with brand-new laptops , thanks to generous support from the James M. Cox Foundation , Cox Communications , and PCs for People . These laptops are more than just devices—they’re gateways to opportunities, enabling participants to access online resources, apply for jobs, and continue their learning journey. The day kicked off with an engaging Digital Equity conversation featuring Gary Chambers  and Casey Phillips , who set the tone for the festival with inspiring words about community empowerment and the importance of bridging the digital divide in North Baton Rouge. Their messages resonated deeply, reminding everyone in attendance that through collaboration, we can uplift our neighbors and create lasting change. Related story: Community Voices Shape East Baton Rouge’s Path to Digital Equity This event is just the beginning. For those who missed it, more opportunities are on the horizon. During the upcoming MLK Festival of Service  from January 17-20, 2025 , we’ll be offering even more resources, workshops, and giveaways, continuing our commitment to equipping our community with the tools and skills they need to thrive. Stay tuned for more details on how you can get involved!

On October 12th, at the Sow Good Community Resource Fair , we had the pleasure of hosting two dynamic paint workshops that blended creativity, skill-building, and environmental responsibility. Participants learned modern techniques for achieving clean lines, such as using caulk to seal painter’s tape, and experimented with layering techniques to create professional finishes. The energy in the room was contagious as community members of all skill levels came together, shared knowledge, and worked hands-on to sharpen their skills. It was truly a collaborative and uplifting experience! Our second session took a deep dive into sustainable practices, highlighting the importance of eco-friendly art. Attendees were introduced to paint water reclamation, where we used aluminum sulfate and hydrated lime to separate paint particles from water. The waste was then repurposed to create concrete pavers, demonstrating how sustainability and creativity can go hand in hand. This sparked some fantastic conversations about reducing environmental impact through art. We were also thrilled to give away over 50 gallons of paint to help the community continue their creative projects at home! For those who missed out, don’t worry! Our next workshop and paint giveaway will take place during MLK Fest 2025 , running from January 17th to 20th. It’s a weekend filled with opportunities to get involved in both creative and impactful projects across the community. We can’t wait to see you there for more learning, art-making, and giving back! Sow Good Community Resource Festival was made possible through the support of Louisiana Healthcare Connections, ExxonMobil, and many others.

On Saturday October 12, 2024, Winston Horton, Agroforestry Equity Coordinator at Baton Rouge Green, and Mitchell Provensal, Associate Director of Agroforestry at Baton Roots, co-led a workshop on Fruit Tree Guilds at Baton Roots during the Sow Good Community Resource Festival. Attendees learned about fruit tree guilds, helped to plant trees in the Baton Roots orchard, and took fruit trees home to plant in their homes and neighborhoods. Baton Roots Community Farm is working with our partners at Baton Rouge Green to expand possibilities for agriculture and forestry in Baton Rouge over the next few years. Learn more about fruit tree guilds and view pictures from the event below. Definition of a Fruit Tree Guild A guild  is a group of plants that work together to support each other’s growth and health, modeled on natural ecosystems. A fruit tree guild  centers around a primary fruit tree and includes companion plants with complementary functions such as nutrient accumulation, pest control, and pollination. These plants create a self-sustaining ecosystem that mimics nature, reducing the need for human intervention. Importance of Guilds in Permaculture Fruit tree guilds play a key role in permaculture  by promoting biodiversity, which leads to a healthier, more resilient environment. They improve soil fertility, control pests naturally, and reduce the need for artificial fertilizers or pesticides. By integrating different plant species, a fruit tree guild provides multiple benefits like habitat for beneficial insects and better water retention, aligning with the sustainable principles of permaculture. Key Benefits of Implementing a Fruit Tree Guild Soil Health and Nutrient Cycling The diverse plants in a guild improve soil structure  by adding organic matter through decaying leaves and root systems. Nitrogen fixers  enrich the soil with nitrogen, and dynamic accumulators  make essential nutrients like potassium available to all plants, leading to a healthier soil ecosystem. Pest and Disease Management By planting pest-repellent plants  and pollinator attractors , you create a balanced system that reduces the occurrence of pests and diseases naturally. A diverse system also attracts beneficial predators  like ladybugs or parasitic wasps that feed on harmful insects, reducing the need for chemical intervention. Water Retention and Conservation Ground cover plants  and mulchers help retain soil moisture, reducing the need for irrigation. The deep-rooted plants in the guild access water from deeper soil layers, making the entire system more drought-resistant. Reduced Maintenance and Sustainability Once a fruit tree guild is established, it requires less maintenance compared to conventional gardens. The natural interactions between the plants reduce weeding, fertilizing, and watering needs, making the system more self-sustaining and aligned with permaculture’s long-term goals. The Components of a Fruit Tree Guild The Fruit Tree (Primary Layer) The central element of the guild is the fruit tree , which provides the primary yield: fruit. The tree benefits from the other plants in the guild, such as those that supply nutrients, attract pollinators, or protect against pests. Choose a fruit tree  suited to your local climate and soil conditions—such as citrus, fig, persimmon —depending on what grows best in your region. Support Plants Nitrogen Fixers: Nitrogen-fixing plants convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use, enriching the soil naturally. This reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers. Examples of nitrogen-fixing plants include clover, peas, beans, lupine, or trees like black locust. Dynamic Accumulators: These plants have deep roots that bring up nutrients from deeper soil layers, accumulating elements like potassium and phosphorus, which become available to the surrounding plants when they decompose. Examples of dynamic accumulators include comfrey, dandelions, yarrow, or chicory. Pollinator Attractors: These plants attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, which are crucial for fruit set and overall biodiversity. They also contribute to a vibrant, healthy ecosystem by supporting beneficial insects. Examples of pollinator attractors include lavender, borage, marigold, bee balm. Mulchers/Ground Cover: Ground covers help to protect the soil from erosion, retain moisture, and suppress weeds. They act as living mulch, reducing the need for artificial mulches and conserving water. Examples of mulchers and ground covers include creeping thyme, vetch, strawberries, or low-growing clover. Pest Repellents: These plants repel pests such as aphids, caterpillars, and rodents, using natural chemicals that deter harmful insects while maintaining balance in the ecosystem. Examples of pest repellents include garlic, chives, onions, tansy, or nasturtiums. Designing Your Own Fruit Tree Guild Analyzing Your Site Site assessment  is critical. Look at factors such as soil type (loam, sandy, clay), sun exposure, wind patterns, and water availability. Understand your site’s microclimate, identifying spots with more sun, wind protection, or better drainage. Selecting Plants for Your Guild Choose plants based on their ecological function  (pollinator, nitrogen-fixer, dynamic accumulator, etc.). Make sure the plants you choose are compatible with the main fruit tree in terms of water, light, and space requirements. Consider plant height and root systems to avoid competition and promote synergy between plants. Planting and Care When planting, spacing  is essential to ensure that plants don’t compete for resources. Plant in layers: taller plants should be placed behind the fruit tree, while shorter plants can be closer to the trunk. In the first few years, regular pruning and care  may be required to establish the system. Over time, maintenance will decrease as the guild matures and becomes more self-sufficient. Interested in learning more about agroforestry with Baton Roots? Check out upcoming opportunities on GivePulse . This event was supported with funding from the USDA Forest Service to The Walls Project. The Walls Project and Baton Rouge Green are equal opportunity employers.

The Digital Equity conversation at the Sow Good Community Resource Festival on October 12, 2024, hosted by Gary Chambers and Casey Phillips, centered on bridging the digital divide in East Baton Rouge Parish. Drawing from the parish’s Digital Equity Plan , the discussion emphasized the critical role of affordable broadband, access to devices, and digital literacy for all residents, especially in underserved communities. Chambers and Phillips stressed that digital equity is essential for full participation in modern society—whether for work, education, healthcare, or civic engagement. Affordability  emerged as a key barrier to digital access, particularly in low-income and minority-majority neighborhoods like the Plank Road Corridor, where up to 40% of households lack internet subscriptions. While broadband infrastructure exists in much of the parish, many residents cannot afford reliable service. Programs like the Affordable Connectivity Program  (ACP) have helped address this issue, but more outreach is needed to raise awareness and boost participation. In rural areas, the challenge is more about availability . Broadband service providers often overlook these communities due to low population density and high infrastructure costs. Chambers and Phillips discussed how initiatives like the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD)  challenge can help bring funding to these underserved regions. Digital literacy  is another critical challenge, with 17.8% of residents considered digitally savvy. Community institutions, especially the East Baton Rouge Parish Library System , play a key role in providing digital literacy training and free internet access. Programs like DigitalLearn.org  and Cell-Ed  offer digital skills education, but there is a need to expand these efforts to reach more residents, particularly through initiatives like digital navigators  who assist people in using online services. In addition to broadband access and literacy, the lack of affordable devices  was discussed as a significant obstacle. Many low-income families simply cannot afford computers or tablets. The Digital Equity Plan proposes partnerships with public institutions and private organizations to provide low-cost or refurbished devices, which are critical for connecting residents to the digital world. A central theme of the conversation was the importance of community feedback  in shaping the Digital Equity Plan. Both hosts emphasized that the plan must reflect the values and needs of the people it is designed to serve. Engaging with residents through surveys, community meetings, and stakeholder sessions is essential to ensure that the plan addresses the real barriers people face, such as affordability, access to devices, and digital skills training. Chambers and Phillips closed the discussion with a call to action: community participation is crucial for achieving digital equity in East Baton Rouge Parish. By gathering feedback from residents, policymakers can create a plan that effectively bridges the digital divide and ensures that everyone has the opportunity to succeed in the digital age.

The Walls Project is thrilled to announce that the Charles Lamar Family Foundation has awarded a generous grant of $25,000 to support the Futures Fund and its transformative teen programs, JOLTcon and Culture Club. This funding will significantly enhance our efforts to provide educational enrichment and vital social connections to high school students in North Baton Rouge. Expanding Culture Club Afterschool Program The Culture Club Afterschool program, which is hosted at Scotlandville Magnet High School and Capitol High School, is a comprehensive initiative that brings together various elements of The Walls Project. The program includes: Visual Arts & Campus Improvement Projects Futures Fund Technology Sessions Hustle & Grow Gardening and Healthy Living OneRouge Civic Engagement PBIS Enrichment and Entertainment Events These activities aim to support school performance and foster community engagement. The pilot programs at both campuses have hosted an average of 30 students and contribute to Positive Behavior Intervention & Support programs, rewarding positive school environments, lowering truancy/absenteeism, and reducing behavioral referrals with fun, student-designed events such as mini-concerts and splash days held twice a semester. Related Article: Cultivating Creativity, Skills, and Community: A Recap of Culture Club After school Activities Transforming Futures Fund with JOLTcon Futures Fund has evolved to include Fall and Spring JOLTcon workshops and competitions at Southern University. These events are integrated into our Culture Club Afterschool media arts and technology programs, providing students with opportunities to learn new hard and soft skills in technology, digital media, entrepreneurship, and teamwork. Each JOLTcon event attracts approximately 70 teens from North Baton Rouge high schools. JOLTcon workshops are themed, helping students understand specific topics, prepare for pitch competitions, and develop skills to design innovative solutions. The competitions culminate in a $500 cash prize for the best pitch, fostering a spirit of creativity and entrepreneurship among participants. Related Article: JOLTcon Discovers Baton Rouge's Next Gen Innovators Addressing Critical Needs The Walls Project targets areas where services and programs are scarce or unaffordable, particularly in communities with residents who are in the ALICE population (asset-limited, income-constrained, employed). By connecting youth with essential resources, we aim to enhance the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. To date, the Futures Fund and Culture Club have trained over 4,000 people in creative arts and technology. The lack of technological knowledge often leads to low-paying, dead-end jobs or unemployment. With technology sector jobs offering up to 76% higher wages, IT education, workforce development, and real-world paid work experiences are crucial for impoverished segments. Futures Fund strives to build a more equitable economy with access for all, strengthening the economy as a whole. The Collaboration’s Impact on the Community We would like to thank the Charles Lamar Family Foundation for the many years of support of our Futures Fund youth program. The foundation's initial grant aimed to create a photo archive of North Baton Rouge, now displayed at Exxon. Our work continues with support from the Huey and Angelina Wilson Foundation, focusing on transforming the 70802 zip code. Students in high schools served will have opportunities to create photo archives of their neighborhoods, participate in blight remediation, and engage in placemaking arts and urban agriculture programs. The latest photo archive project, launched during MLKFest 2024 in partnership with GGI Institute, revitalized prior public art projects, cleaned up over two dozen city blocks, and expanded our urban farm and garden footprint in the Eden Park neighborhood. A Brighter Future Ahead The $25,000 grant from the Charles Lamar Family Foundation marks a significant milestone in our journey to empower Baton Rouge teens. With continued support and collaboration, the Futures Fund and Culture Club will keep transforming lives, building a stronger, more inclusive community for all.