Boys Town Louisiana celebrated the people and organizations making a difference in the lives of young people at its Spirit of Youth Awards on March 20 in the Arbor Room at Popp Fountain in City Park.
The evening honored two: Winston Rhea Scholars and Lucio A. Fragoso. Winston Rhea Scholars is a nonprofit that supports youth transitioning out of foster care through grants, community and scholarships. The organization was recognized for its excellence and community leadership. Fragoso is the president and CEO of Manning Family Children’s Hospital, who was honored for his dedication to improving the health and well-being of children throughout Louisiana.
Guests enjoyed cocktails, live music and dinner, but one of the evening’s most meaningful moments came with special recognition of youth in Boys Town Louisiana’s residential programs.
“The Spirit of Youth Awards Gala was a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community comes together around children and families,” said Rashain Carriere-Williams, executive director of Boys Town Louisiana.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who joined us to celebrate the accomplishments of our young people, recognize Winston Rhea and Lou Fragoso for their commitment to youth, and support the work happening every day at Boys Town Louisiana,” Carriere-Williams added.
Fun Fact: Boys Town’s story became a major Hollywood movie starring Spencer Tracy and Mickey Rooney in 1938. Tracy won the Academy Award for Best Actor for portraying founder Father Edward Flanagan, and he later gave his Oscar to Boys Town’s national office, where it remains on display today.
