Creating a Vibrant and Diverse Coastal Community Where All Can Thrive!

October 15, 2025

Local Nonprofit Representatives Learn and Network at Bayou Region Nonprofit Conference

Over 100 local nonprofit leaders, staff, and volunteers came together for Bayou Community Foundation’s 7th Annual Bayou Region Nonprofit Conference to sharpen skills and forge new partnerships.

Bayou Community Foundation welcomed 125 nonprofit leaders, staff and volunteers from Lafourche, Terrebonne, Grand Isle and beyond to our 2025 Bayou Region Nonprofit Conference on October 9 at Fletcher Technical Community College.

In partnership with the Louisiana Alliance of Nonprofits, this year’s conference was sponsored by LA Blue and Woodside Energy, and attendance was the highest since the event began in 2018.

The theme, “Impact Amplified,” focused on strategies, tools, and collaborations to help nonprofits grow and strengthen their impact.

“As part of our commitment to help build the capacity of local nonprofits, Bayou Community Foundation is delighted to bring local nonprofit leaders and volunteers together each year to sharpen our skills, learn new tools, and make powerful new connections. This year's conference was another home run!” said Executive Director Jennifer Armand. 

“The conference left me feeling inspired and full of new ideas," said Bethany Leonard, Marketing Coordinator for the Terrebonne Historical & Cultural Society, Inc. "It’s amazing to see the passion and commitment that drive nonprofits throughout the Bayou region.”

The keynote presentation by Julie Lapayrouse of Screaming Peacock challenged attendees to rethink leadership decisions by focusing on what brings them joy, offering practical insights and plenty of laughs along the way.

During lunch, Dr. Heather Carpenter, Executive Director of the Institute for Nonprofit Administration and Research at LSU Shreveport, shared research and insights on Louisiana’s nonprofit sector, highlighting trends, challenges, and strategies to build resilience and strengthen community impact.

This year's conference breakout sessions offered attendees practical strategies and skills, including:

• Fund Development Planning
• How to Lead with Mission-Driven Strategies
• Effective Financial Management
• Engaging Audiences through Digital Communications
• Leveraging AI to Grow Your Mission.

The day also included two new features: a panel of local nonprofit leaders who shared insights, lessons learned and best practices from their work in the community, and exhibitors showcasing resources and services to support nonprofit growth.

"I enjoyed the opportunity to not only collaborate with local nonprofit leaders, but also learn from them," said Stefanny Chaisson, Liaison to the Friends of the Terrebonne Public Library. "The informative sessions left me with practical tips I was able to implement immediately when reaching out to donors and supporters. I look forward to this conference every year!"

POWERD BY PARTNERSHIP:

Thank You, LA Blue, Woodside Energy, LAN and Fletcher!

The success of this year’s Bayou Region Nonprofit Conference was made possible through the generous support of sponsors LA Blue and Woodside Energy, presenting partner LA Alliance for Nonprofits, and host Fletcher Technical Community College. These partnerships reflect our shared commitment to strengthen our local nonprofit community and build a brighter future for Lafourche, Terrebonne, and Grand Isle.

Additional Bayou Community Foundation nonprofit workshops and programs are scheduled throughout the year. Visit www.BayouCF.org and follow us on social media for more information as events are announced.

Good Grows Here

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