Thirteen THRIVING 30-Somethings

We’ve all wondered what might happen to us down the road, 10 or 20 years from now. What will we be doing? Where will our life’s journey take us? Will our lives look similar to today, or will we completely reinvent ourselves?

While no one can predict the future, we feel fairly certain this year’s group of 13 30-Somethings will still be thriving. Whatever their next chapters hold, we suspect they will continue to grow in their careers and make positive impacts on the people around them. It’s who they are. They can’t imagine life any other way. This is true not only of our 13 winners, but of ALL the Thriving 30-Somethings nominees! Every year, Thrive receives over 50 nominations, and each is worthy of being a Thriving 30-Something. It takes a special kind of person to even be nominated for this designation.

In this annual special cover section, we honor these individuals’ commitment to achievement and dedicated compassion for our community. Their stories exhibit a drive to not only succeed in life, but to give back to the people who, directly or indirectly, have contributed to their accomplishments. Read on to find out why they do what they do and how they came to be where they are in under forty years; and where they envision themselves two decades from now.

Jeremiah Juneau, 39

Director of Administrative Services for the SWLA Ministry, CHRISTUS Ochsner Health SWLA

Jeremiah Juneau was born and raised in Hessmer, Louisiana. He attended LSU-Alexandria and earned an associate’s degree in radiologic technology in 2006. He specialized in nuclear medicine at Delgado Community College in New Orleans, and later received a Bachelor of Science from Northwestern State University. More recently, Jeremiah received a graduate certificate in healthcare administration from Louisiana Christian University, formerly Louisiana College. He is currently pursuing a master’s in business administration through Louisiana Christian University, along with an additional graduate certificate in organizational administration.

Jeremiah has been employed since he was in middle school. He washed cars, mowed lawns, worked as a convenience store cashier, and in construction all while maintaining school responsibilities and playing baseball. “Those years taught me the value of a strong work ethic, time management, and the sacrifice required to accomplish lofty goals,” he says.
Jeremiah came to Lake Charles in 2007 to begin his career as a nuclear medicine technologist at Louisiana PET/CT Imaging Center and soon transitioned into a managerial position there. “What was intended to be a quick stop in a town I knew nothing about turned into a wonderful career at Louisiana PET/CT Imaging of Lake Charles for nearly 14 years.”
In 2021, Jeremiah became director of radiology at CHRISTUS Ochsner Health SWLA. Oncology services were later added to his responsibilities. He is now CHRISTUS Ochsner’s director of administrative services for the SWLA Ministry. “I provide oversight of multiple departments at both St. Patrick and Lake Area Hospitals, along with our outlying clinics,” he says. “Through servant leadership, I have helped our Ministry successfully navigate through numerous healthcare challenges, all magnified by the pandemic and local natural disasters.” Jeremiah serves on several committees within the CHRISTUS organization and belongs to numerous professional healthcare organizations.

Within the community, he volunteers with Catholic Charities of SWLA and coaches several youth sports teams. “When serving others, I feel that their appreciation is the ultimate gift.” Jeremiah was previously active in local running, triathlon, and cycling communities. “I have competed in numerous races in all disciplines, and I am a three-time Ironman finisher.”
Jeremiah says he thrives in finding ways to turn obstacles into opportunities. “This mindset allows a positive attitude, even in times of difficult challenges. I have learned that anticipating obstacles, instead of attempting to avoid challenges, allows me to become a reliable and effective leader.” He credits his parents, Greg and Sonia Juneau, and mentors, Ronald Weems and James Davidson for contributing to his work ethic and determination to achieve goals. “My parents instilled in me the value of faith, hard work, commitment, and reliability. This has allowed me to accomplish great things. I now use these qualities to help provide the best for my wife, Kelly, and our children, Oliver and Charlee. We enjoy traveling and outdoor activities and are parishioners of St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church.”

Kalyn Partin, P.E., 30

Project Manager/Civil Engineer, Atlas Technical Consultants

Kalyn Partin was born and raised in Lake Charles and currently lives in Moss Bluff, Louisiana, with her husband and three children. She attended McNeese State University and graduated in 2015 with a bachelor’s in engineering and a minor in mathematics. In 2020, she graduated with a master’s in engineering and technology management from LA Tech with an additional Six Sigma Green Belt Certification. “After McNeese, I began my career as an engineer intern with Accu-Line Surveying, Inc. in Sulphur and then moved to the LA Department of Transportation and Development in Lake Charles,” Kalyn says. “There, I grew in my engineering career for nearly eight years, beginning as an engineer intern in the design office and eventually being promoted to construction coordinator and water resource engineer. Last year, I was hired by Atlas to be a project manager/civil engineer and establish a new Lake Charles office.”
Kalyn is the president of the Louisiana Engineering Society Lake Charles chapter and serves as a state board member and the state membership committee chair. “Through LES, I have also been the regional MATHCOUNTS coordinator for nearly 10 years, providing middle school students the opportunity to compete in a math competition at McNeese, with the potential to win McNeese scholarships and a chance to compete at state and nationals,” Kalyn says.

In 2022, Kalyn was nominated by the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury and appointed by Governor John Bel Edwards to represent the parish as a Professional Engineer on the Chenier Plain Coastal Restoration and Protection Authority Board, where she continues to serve. She and her husband are members at Life United Church and serve weekly as musicians/vocalists, EMCEE, and in other volunteer capacities. “In my new role at Atlas, I hope to be able to broaden my volunteer opportunities within the community,” Kalyn adds.
Kalyn says she wants to make a difference and change people and situations for the better. “As a native Louisianan, I have a deep love and pride for SWLA and the state. I want to see my home and the people in it flourish! I have a passion to inspire others to grow and love what they do and where they are. My dad has been instrumental in cultivating a passionate spirit in me, aiming to do the right thing in every situation and leaving people and places better than he found them. Even as a busy full-time wife, mother, and engineer, I’m dedicated to serving my community to see it succeed and know that my family and others will benefit from its growth and success.”

Kalyn says she’s grateful for a supportive family who prays for her, encourages her, and pushes her to be better each day. “Being a working mom would be impossible without the support they provide to allow me to work and serve in my community. They are my biggest fans and my most favorite people.”

Chelsea Champagne, 32

Assistant District Attorney, Cameron Parish
Attorney, Stockwell Sievert Law Firm

Chelsea Champagne was born and raised on a horse farm in Opelousas, Louisiana. Her parents, Brian and Melanie Carroll, instilled in her three core values that she lives by today: faith, family, and hard work. Chelsea’s first paid job was at the age of 10 when she drove her dad’s farm truck in the hay pasture while he and the helping hands loaded the hay trailer. As a teenager, she worked as a lifeguard at the local pool. Chelsea also excelled at rodeo. Her work ethic, good grades, and the many hours spent in the rodeo arena landed her a full scholarship at McNeese State University where she led the Cowboys to many national rodeo victories. Hanging up her ropes for law school, Chelsea attended Southern University Law Center, where she earned a spot on the SULC Law Review and Trial Advocacy team and graduated with honors obtaining her Juris Doctorate in May 2017.

Since 2021, Chelsea has served as the assistant district attorney for the Parish of Cameron where she serves as the lead prosecutor for all criminal matters of the Thirty-Eighth Judicial District Court and serves as legal counsel to several Cameron Parish entities. She serves as legal liaison to the Cameron Parish Police Jury in litigation of post-hurricane insurance, coastal restoration, and worker’s compensation, as well as general counsel for defense litigation. Chelsea is also an associate attorney at Stockwell Sievert Law Firm where she focuses on the defense of healthcare providers, represents homeowners against their former contractors under the New Home Warranty Act, and assists in cases representing the City of Lake Charles.
Chelsea says her work ethic is inspired by her parents. “They both worked hard in life to ensure my sister and I had the best resources we needed to be successful. They taught us that humility and hard work is how success is made.”

Encompassing the characteristics of servant leadership, Chelsea created a Cameron Parish litter abatement program debuting this summer. In 2021, Chelsea was named Cameron Lions Club “New Member of the Year” for unceasing service to others. She volunteers with the SWLA Bar Association and has participated in their OktoBARfest fundraisers. Since 2008, Chelsea has assisted with Special Olympics and Special Kids Rodeos. She judges and assists with mock trial competitions among schools in multiple parishes.
Chelsea is married to Dylan Champagne. “I met my husband when I was in law school, which was one of the most challenging times in my life. He kept me motivated to strive for success in law school and throughout the gruesome summer studying for the bar exam.” The couple live in Grand Lake and are involved with several area churches – the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, St. Mary of the Lake in Big Lake, and Sacred Heart of Jesus in Creole, where Chelsea serves as a guest lector at Masses and a guest lecturer to the youth Religious Education program.

Taylor Beard Stanley, 33

Vice President of Sales, Visit Lake Charles

Taylor Beard Stanley was born in Grand Lake, Louisiana, but as an adolescent, her father’s job moved the family around the country. “Bouncing around from school to school at a young age shaped my shy exterior,” she says. “I vividly remember getting into trouble with my teachers for saying “yes ma’am” and being teased because I said words like “y’all.” Taylor returned to Southwest Louisiana in 2004 and graduated from Grand Lake High School in 2009. She attended McNeese State University and earned a bachelor’s degree in political science. She soon realized a career in law wasn’t a good fit and explored other paths before ultimately landing at Visit Lake Charles in 2016. “I had no idea what a convention & visitors bureau was or that we even had one in Lake Charles. I was late to my first interview (of three), because I couldn’t find the building. I always joke that I stumbled into tourism, but I’m so glad I did!”

A member since 2016, Taylor is currently the vice president of Fusion Five. She also serves as the sponsorship chair which she says has really pushed her out of her comfort zone. “But I believe in the work that Fusion Five does for young professionals.” Taylor also serves on the Leadership Southwest Louisiana Alumni Council (currently Alumni Chair) and volunteers with Destinations International, the 30 Under 30 Alumni Council, tourism industry projects such as Just Imagine SWLA, and the Mid-City Neighborhood Transformation Catalytic Project.
Taylor says she’s a big Simon Sinek fan. “He has a TedTalk on what he calls the Golden Circle and starting with your ‘Why.’ When I think about why I do what I do or why I am the way I am, I realize I want to do things that are meaningful for others. When my time on this world is up, I want to feel like I made a difference, and that is what drives me. It’s why I’m so passionate about tourism. What we do at Visit Lake Charles directly impacts our community, both economically and in our quality of life. When it comes to volunteering, I know I can’t say yes to everything, so I go where I feel my skills can be best utilized. I don’t sit on boards or committees for the title. I do it because I believe I have something I can contribute to the group to help them reach their goals. We have a responsibility to lift up and amplify the voices and organizations that are doing good work, because the bad can be so much louder sometimes. I love Southwest Louisiana and hope I have opportunities to continue to give back to my home in different ways as I move forward in my career.

Taylor and her husband Tyler are parents to daughters Eleanor and Abigail.

Julie Savoie, 36

ABA Supervisor, St. Nicholas Center for Children

A native of Iowa, Louisiana, Julie Savoie attended McNeese State University and received her master’s degree in psychology. She is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who mainly treats children diagnosed with autism. During her 11 years with St. Nicholas Center for Children, Savoie has played an integral role in the expansion of their services.
For example, Julie initiated Parent’s Night Out. “We volunteer one night a quarter to babysit at our facility for any of our patient’s families.”

In 2020, the Center partnered with a school for autism in Rwanda, Africa. Savoie visited the school for a week and trained their teachers to work directly with the children and how to conduct a training for the parents. “In Africa, a family whose child has autism is looked down upon, so families don’t speak out. The teachers hosted the first ever parent group meeting and provided a training. For the first time, these families were able to stand up and tell their personal stories about their child. They developed a support system. That was the most rewarding and impactful portion of that experience. I know the kids benefitted from our therapy, but equally important, the families began building awareness for autism in their country.”

Savoie also offers local community training programs. “I have presented at several autism conferences across the state, spoken at local church organizations, as well as to students in area schools or at the Center, where I discuss “What is Autism” and how it affects those diagnosed. The hope is to promote more understanding and empathy. Autism awareness is widespread and helpful, but teaching the next generation to show compassion to children who learn differently can have a huge impact.”
Last summer, the Center piloted a program called STEPS that eases the financial burden for some families and enables their child with autism to benefit from their ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) program.

Savoie is a first year Sustainer with the Junior League of Lake Charles. She’s worked on various committees as a general member, chaired the Technology committee, and served as Communications Director. “My biggest accomplishments during my time with the League were my personal gains. Initially, I was hesitant to be put on the Technology committee since I am the opposite of tech savvy, but I learned so many new things. The League launched a new website at that time and I was involved in creating new content and managing the site for updates. While on the grants and scholarships committee, the League developed the TEACH Grant supporting local teachers.”

Savoie and her husband, Andre, live in Sulphur and have one daughter, Taryn. “While autism has not directly impacted my family, I have a deep love for children on the spectrum,” she says. “It gives me great joy to see a child reach their fullest potential.”

Allen Cormier, Jr., 38

Founder/President, With You
Detective, Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office

Allen Cormier, Jr. was born and raised in Lake Charles, Louisiana. He attended McNeese State University and earned his undergraduate degree in music education. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. After completing his military service, Allen returned home to Southwest Louisiana and married Michaella Ange Cormier. He earned master’s degrees in criminal justice (from McNeese) and emergency management and homeland security (from Arizona State). Allen worked odd jobs through high school and college, but he says his primary focus was on his education. “Growing up in a home that focused on serving the community (mother was a teacher and father was a sheriff’s deputy), in 2013 I turned to a career in law enforcement with the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office, where I’m currently a detective.”

In July 2023, Allen founded With You, a non-profit organization focused on providing access to mental health support for first responders. From his experiences in the military and at the Sheriff’s office, he understands firsthand the challenges faced by service members and first responders. “By November 2020, after dealing with COVID-19 and Hurricanes Laura and Delta, I was beyond exhaustion and started to have stress-related issues. I sought out both physical and mental health support and discovered there were limited resources locally and a deep stigma of first responders asking for help.”

Allen says he had a great support group and was fortunate to find help. “But I learned that others were struggling and didn’t know where to turn. I started With You to provide access to holistic mental healthcare and dispel the stigma. Through my struggles, I found I need to take care of myself mentally, physically, and spiritually, or I am useless to my family and community.”
Allen also volunteers with the Southwest Louisiana Veterans Association, where he served as event coordinator and secretary from 2022-2023.

Allen humbly denies being a ‘Thriving 30-Something’. “I’m a normal person who has placed himself into positions that allow me to experience the best and worst of human nature. I’ve worked with service members and first responders whom I look up to and who are truly the best of our community, and I want to bring honor to their service and sacrifice. That is what motivates me. I’m not the best of the best nor an amazing person. I am a son, a father, a husband . . . same as anyone. I want to honor my family, community, and those who came before, and leave a foundation for future generations. When you experience the darkest parts of our community each day it becomes what you see everywhere. I want to change that. Helping others calms the voices of my past failures, of not being enough for those who needed it when they needed it most. True transparency is that I’m afraid to fail because it’s “Life and Death.”

Allen credits his accomplishments to his wife and their three children. “Without Michaella’s support, none of this would have been possible. My extended family also deserves credit for the amazing support system they provide.”

Carrie LaFargue, 38

Senior Development Manager, American Cancer Society

Raised in Moss Bluff, Carrie LaFargue has spent her life in Southwest Louisiana. She graduated from McNeese State University with a bachelor’s degree in behavioral studies. Her first job was at McDonald’s when she was a junior in high school. I would go to school every morning, immediately followed by volleyball, soccer, or track practice (depending on the season) then I would work from 7:00 -11:00 p.m. three times a week. Juggling so many different activities all at one time prepared me for the crazy life that I juggle now. It’s like they always say, ‘If you want to get something done, ask a busy person to do it!’”

During the day, Carrie serves as the local Senior Development Manager of the American Cancer Society. But it’s her volunteer work that keeps her on the move. She is the president of the Junior League of Lake Charles (JLLC), secretary of the Graywood Tigersharks swim team, fundraising chair of St. John Elementary’s PTO, staff partner for SWLA Relay for Life and SWLA Men Wear Pink for the American Cancer Society. She also volunteers with the Children’s Museum.

Carrie says her childhood competitiveness – supported by her mom, who never missed a game – spills over into her volunteer life. “I take the energy that I once put into sports and pivot it into community service. I still have that same competitive nature but now my heart is as full as my plate! The reward of giving a child a food bag to get them through the Thanksgiving break because they wouldn’t have had anything to eat without it or having a cancer patient be able to afford their treatment because of funds that I helped raise makes all the time and energy given worth it all. But I’m still competitive in my community service! The Men Wear Pink campaign that is in my portfolio is #7 in the nation and we are going for the #6 spot this year. And our JLLC fundraisers are some of the most successful events in the area, and we don’t plan on that slowing down anytime soon. The main reason I stay so involved in the community is because I can. As long as I am able to make even the smallest positive impact on someone else’s life, I will!

Carrie and her husband, Chase, have one son, Grayson, and two dogs, Nola Roux and Sir Archer Squishy Paws. “I wouldn’t be half the women I am without the love and support of my family!”

Brittany Chavis. 36

Attorney, Chavis Law
Prosecutor, City of Lake Charles

A native of Lake Charles, Brittany Chavis earned a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts with a major in sociology in 2009. From there, she moved to Baton Rouge and obtained her law degree from Southern University Law Center and became a licensed attorney in 2012. Back in Lake Charles, she served for two years as judicial clerk with the Honorable Judge Ritchie. In 2014, she became an Assistant District Attorney in the 14th Judicial District. Brittany started a private practice in 2020, where she handles family law, criminal defense, and personal injury issues. She is also currently the City of Lake Charles prosecutor.

“When I set a goal, I do everything in my reach to achieve it,” Brittany says. “The only career I have ever wanted was to be an attorney, and I knew that since I was about five years old. Knowing the educational path I needed to achieve that goal, I always strived for high scholastic achievement. I graduated from college within three years and began law school at age 21, the youngest in my graduating class.”

Brittany is also a published author. After journaling her way through a difficult pregnancy leading up to the birth of her son Bryant Jr., she released her first book, It is Well. She has also published a wellness journal, Thankful for LIFE, which became an Amazon bestseller during its initial release. This book was spurred by her personal battle with lupus, an autoimmune disease she was diagnosed with in 2014. Each May, National Lupus Awareness Month, she spreads awareness through social media and other channels. In 2021, she held a Thankful for LIFE Balloon Release, honoring those who have died due to complications from lupus and those still fighting the disease. “I created my yearly slogan, the acronym LIFE, which stands for “Living Is Fighting Everyday”, Brittany says. In 2022, she donated over $5,000 to the National Lupus Foundation through a fundraising event. She also hosted a virtual panel “Purple Table Talk”, where she and other lupus warriors were interviewed alongside their mothers.

Brittany says she’s grateful that her parents, Keith and Pamela Bell, allowed her to be a creative dreamer since childhood. “My parents and my husband have always supported every endeavor, no matter how big the goal, and that has driven me to become the woman I am today. I was born with a heart to help others. No matter how busy I am, I try use my talents to pour into others, such as younger and aspiring attorneys, being a blessing in any way I can to those who need it most and being of service to my community.”

Brittany is married to Bryant Chavis Sr. and they share one son, Bryant Chavis Jr. who she says is her best achievement yet! New puppy, Bentley Chavis, recently joined the family.

Haley Armand Tarasiewicz, 33

Senior Communication Specialist, Healthy Image Marketing Agency

A native of Sulphur, Louisiana, Haley Armand Tarasiewicz is a double alumna of Louisiana State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in mass communication with a concentration in public relations and a minor in business administration, and a master’s degree in public administration with concentrations in government affairs and public policy. Haley says she is thankful for the opportunities the SWLA community has given her. “Having moved away for my education, worked and lived in various parts of Louisiana and travelled all over the world, I’ve learned there truly is no place like home.”

Haley is a senior communication specialist at Healthy Image Marketing Agency. The journey that brought her there includes positions with Louisiana Economic Development, Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, SWLA Chamber—Alliance, LSU, PPG, One Acadiana and Sasol. “Every organization needs communications,” she says. “These opportunities to gain a better understanding of corporations, public/private sectors, and their issues instilled in me a passion to keep a pulse on the environment and inspire others to “lean-in” to bring projects to life! All of these different organizations working together is where the magic of community-driven progress happens.”

Haley volunteers and serves in leadership roles with several groups– Leadership SWLA; Family & Youth: The Children’s Advocacy Center; SWLA Chamber Small Business Task Force; Immaculate Conception Cathedral School; and Holden’s Hope. Her career has allowed her to be involved in numerous community projects that make a big impact for SWLA, including the St. Nicholas Center for Children; Tellurian LEAD Council; SWLA Regional Planning & Development Commission; Community Foundation SWLA; McNeese State University; United Way; Fusion Five; and others. She is a member of Ellevate Louisiana; LSU Alumni Association; and SWLA Public Relations Officers.

Haley says she was raised to not see service as something you do, but more of an attitude you build your life around. “You do it because it’s the right thing to do. Our growth and success centers on our impact on others. I’ve gained new perspectives, better communication, lessons in gratitude and empathy, and a greater motivation to push myself. That mind frame and drive comes from the voice in my head of my late grandfather, J.C. Como. He was this giant figure in my life that helped me to believe that anything is possible if you’re willing to work hard for it. Life is tough, but so are you.”

Haley and her husband, John, have three daughters: Anna Grace (6), Jillian (4), Eliza (2). “We love involving our girls in area events and fundraisers that benefit our community, exposing them to our culture and instilling the importance of giving back. I often remind myself of St. Theresa’s words, ‘If you want to change the world, go home and love your family.’ To me, SWLA is my family too, and you create strong family units through love, kindness, and service.”

Alberto Galan, 36

Administrator Assistant, Calcasieu Parish Police Jury

Alberto Galan was born in Marrero, Louisiana, but he considers Southwest Louisiana home. He graduated from LSU and received a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in finance and a Spanish minor, and then attended Southern University Law Center to obtain his Juris Doctorate, before returning to Lake Charles to begin his career. Alberto has worked at the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury (CPPJ) for the past 11 years, currently serving as Assistant to the Administrator.

Alberto says the diversity of tasks and challenges associated with his job drives him to succeed. On any given day, he might work on infrastructure implementation, quality of life improvements, streamlining processes, and community programs. He oversees contracts, planning tasks, budgets, legislative issues, drainage and coastal/watershed projects, and more.
“Interacting and collaborating with the public on a regular basis and seeing the value in local government daily is rewarding,” he says. “There is no end to what can be done in this career with the help of others.”

After Hurricane Laura in August 2020, Alberto was appointed to lead a Long-Term Community Recovery Plan. This intense nine-month process required high-level planning and interpersonal communication skills and persistence to complete a project of this magnitude.

The list of Alberto’s volunteer efforts is lengthy, including numerous boards like the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, LA Watershed Initiative Steering Committee, and Fusion Five; task forces like the Chamber’s Quality of Life Task Force. He’s a 2017 graduate of Leadership SWLA and a 2022 graduate of Leadership LA. He also coaches his daughter’s soccer team.
Alberto says he is fortunate to have had strong mentors throughout his life. “My mom and grandmother taught me the value of a foreign language. My dad taught me more than I can list in this limited space. The team in administration assembled by Bryan Beam, a huge mentor, is exceptional to learn from, and I am lucky to have them. The opportunity to work with people, both internally and externally, and other entities to achieve common goals is rewarding and offers opportunities to improve by learning from others. I am very fortunate to have found work that is challenging and can make a difference in our community.”

Alberto also credits his family, his parents and his sister and her family, for their support and positive influence in his life. “My daughter, Ave Rose (who’s favorite person is her big brother Knox) is my daily inspiration; watching their growth is truly special.”

Julia Bourgeois, 30

Founder and President, Families for Inclusion

A native of Sulphur, Louisiana. Julia Bourgeois pursued her education at McNeese State University, graduating in 2016 with degrees in accounting and finance. During college, she actively engaged in campus life as a Cowgirl Kicker and a member of Phi Mu.

She says her life took a profound turn when she married Joe Bourgeois, and they became parents to two wonderful boys, Brooks and Charlie. “However, it was becoming a mother to Brooks, a special needs child with Spina Bifida, that ignited my passion for fostering inclusivity. Witnessing the challenges Brooks and others with special needs face in everyday activities led me to establish Families for Inclusion, where I now proudly serve as Founder and President.”

Families for Inclusion is a heartfelt initiative breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for individuals with special needs. The organization strives to enhance inclusivity in daily activities, ensuring everyone can participate fully in the community. “This journey is deeply personal, rooted in my love for my children and a commitment to building a more inclusive future for individuals with special needs,” Julia says.

In addition to her own non-profit, Julia participates in other community events, such as the Children’s Miracle Network NICU reunion; Touch a Truck; This is Home Fest; Mardi Gras Children’s Day; and other City of Lake Charles events. She is also a member of the Mayor’s Commission on Disability and Fusion Five.

“Experiencing a love so profound and boundless after becoming a mother has become my driving force,” Julia adds. “It has completely shifted my perspective on the world. My paramount concern is now ensuring that every individual feels included and welcomed in our community.”

Julia describes herself as someone who has always strived for high achievement. “The thought of my actions shaping a community where my oldest son, Brooks, can grow up feeling accepted and participate side by side with his brother, Charlie, is a powerful motivator. The realization that my efforts contribute to creating a more inclusive environment for all families fuels my sense of purpose.”

Julia says Families for Inclusion owes its existence entirely to the unwavering support of her family. “My husband stands as my anchor and trusted sounding board, urging me to reach for the stars. The motivation I derive from my children propels me forward, reminding me each day of the importance of persevering in my mission.”
Julia is also grateful to the Families for Inclusion Board of Directors: Deveni Polito, Jordan Steelman, Hannah Andrews, Renee’ LeJeune, Heidi Minervini, and Hailey Barrow. “These dedicated individuals are true rockstars, wholeheartedly believing in our mission.”

Nicholas J.N. Algero, 30

Attorney, Algero Law, LLC

Originally from New Orleans, Nicholas Algero attended the University of Southern Mississippi where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in business administration with a double major in business administration and finance. After graduation, he attended the Paul M. Hebert Law Center at LSU where he earned his Juris Doctorate and Graduate Degree in Comparative Law. Upon graduating law school in 2019, Nick began his legal career with the Calcasieu Parish District Attorney’s office. In 2021, he opened the Algero Law Firm with aiming to provide quality legal representation that is not only affordable but effective in the areas of criminal defense and family law. He is currently contracted by the Calcasieu Parish Public Defender’s Office to represent the children of Calcasieu parish in cases brought against them by the State.

Since moving to Calcasieu Parish in 2019, Nick has invested himself in the community that adopted him as their own. He has served on the board of Oasis Women’s Shelter, his local Knights of Columbus council, and the Young Lawyers Division of the Southwest Louisiana Bar Association. For the last three years, Nick has participated in the SWLA Men Wear Pink campaign which raises funds for the American Cancer Society, directly impacting patients, survivors, and caregivers in our community by providing transportation, lodging and screening. He chaired the SWLA Men Wear Pink campaign in 2023 which helped the campaign finish #7 in the nation, raising over $250,000.00.

Nick’s dedication to the Southwest Louisiana community is driven largely by his desire to positively impact the lives of everyone he meets every single day. Although his business slogan, “Get help quick, call Nick” may seem like nothing more than catchy marketing, it truly is a perfect description of his attitude every day. Whether it is for his clients or the community, he is always eager to help in any way necessary.

Above all else, Nick’s proudest achievement in life is his family. After moving to Calcasieu Parish, he met and fell in love with Morgan Daniels Algero. Morgan, a native of DeQuincy, exposed Nick to everything Southwest Louisiana has to offer. The two married in December 2021. Morgan and Nick welcomed their first child Nicholas Joseph Norman Algero, Jr, known as “Nico” to family and friends, in April 2023.

Whitney Moss Griffin, 31

Owner, Pop Balloons  /  Louisiana Reauxl Rolled Ice Cream

Whitney Moss hails from Sulphur, Louisiana. She attended McNeese State University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in mass communication and an associate degree in paralegal studies. She says she’s worn many hats throughout her career journey, and currently she’s an entrepreneur. Whitney owns Pop Balloons and co-owns Louisiana Reauxl Rolled Ice Cream with her father. She also serves as Client Relations Specialist for the family business, 5M Services. Recently, Whitney embarked on a new chapter in her career as a school photographer with Grad Sales. “I thrive on staying busy, whether it’s through work, volunteering, or lending a helping hand to someone in need,” she says.

Whitney says volunteering has always held a special place in her heart. She’s been involved with Dreams Come True of Louisiana; Operation Christmas Child; and Toys for Tots. As a member of Fusion Five, she played a key role in starting Fueling Five Families with Fusion Five. “As a small business owner, I have seamlessly integrated volunteer initiatives within our community. I’ve adopted students at the start of the school year and provided them with essential supplies. I’ve donated dresses for Homecoming and Prom. During natural disasters, I cook and offer support to those in need.”

“I want to make the most of the gifts God has given me,” Whitney adds. “My aim is not only to give back to the community that has shaped me but also to mentor and inspire younger generations to embrace and utilize their own talents. Having been immersed in the pageant community for over half of my life, I understand the significance of volunteering and charity. My passion and compassion for my community drive me to make a positive impact.”
Growing up, my parents instilled in me the importance of giving back. For example, each year we adopt a family from the Angel Tree during the holidays. These small reminders have shaped my belief that no matter the circumstances, it is essential to contribute to the well-being of others. The act of giving back and supporting my community brings me immeasurable benefits. The feeling of making a positive impact, whether on the entire community or just one individual, is priceless.

Reflecting on my college years and early adulthood, I often wondered how I could establish myself as a thriving individual in my thirties within my community. It warms my heart to see that my vision has become a reality and I’m making a significant impact. My wish for any individual is that they learn to be comfortable in their own skin. God made each of us for a reason – embrace it!