Shreveport’s Spirit of Service Shines at LSUS Commencement
In the heart of Shreveport, a remarkable celebration is on the horizon as Louisiana State University Shreveport (LSUS) prepares for its summer graduation ceremonies. This Friday, graduates will gather at the Brookshire Grocery Arena in Bossier City, marking a significant milestone in their educational journeys. But this graduation is special not just because of the diplomas being handed out; it also features an inspiring keynote address from a local leader who embodies the spirit of community service.
Meet Kilpatrick Baird: A Life Dedicated to Service
Enter K.C. Kilpatrick Baird, the CEO of Geaux 4 Kids, who has devoted her life to helping others. Kilpatrick Baird grew up as an only child, with parents who instilled in her the importance of giving back. Through programs like Meals on Wheels and various community initiatives, she learned early on the value of service. “My upbringing truly shaped my servant’s spirit,” she reflected. “But it was my experience at LSUS that provided the crucial structure and knowledge I needed to navigate the nonprofit world effectively.”
From Education to Impact
As she prepares to address the graduates, Kilpatrick Baird emphasizes that running a successful nonprofit goes beyond good intentions. “It takes a well-rounded skill set to form partnerships and communicate your mission effectively,” she stated. “I learned how to assess community needs and explore the best ways to address them through my education at LSUS.” She credits her success to the support she received from the LSUS Institute of Nonprofit Research and Administration during her educational journey, which included earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, as well as nonprofit certifications.
Creating Change Through Geaux 4 Kids
Founded in 2015, Geaux 4 Kids specifically supports children within the foster care system. Kilpatrick Baird’s journey as a foster parent began in 2013, exposing her to heartbreaking realities faced by children fleeing neglect and abuse. “Many times, these children arrive with just the clothes on their backs,” she said. “It’s gut-wrenching to witness their circumstances, especially when they come from situations involving opioids or human trafficking.”
Her experiences inspired the creation of Project Geaux Bags, essential bags filled with necessities and comfort items aimed at easing transitions for children and their new foster families during their first few days together. These bags include a variety of items tailored to different ages, ranging from baby essentials to journals for teens and can be distributed by first responders like police or child services. “As a community, we can do better for these kids,” she insisted. “They deserve a little piece of home during one of the most difficult times in their lives.”
Growing Impact Across Regions
What began in Northwest Louisiana has rapidly expanded across the state and even into East Texas and Arkansas. Since 2020, the organization has been on a mission of growth and outreach, driven in part by the expertise provided by LSUS faculty members. “The insights and support from the Institute of Nonprofit Research and Administration have been invaluable as we scale our operations,” Kilpatrick Baird noted.
More Than Just Geaux Bags
Beyond Project Geaux Bags, the organization also runs Project Just Be-Clause and Project Geaux Adopt, which provide Christmas gifts for teens and personalized backpacks for adopted children. “We want to make sure we’re supporting all kids in foster care, especially those who may be overlooked during the holiday season,” Kilpatrick Baird explained.
A Message to Graduates
As she prepares to address over 1,000 graduates, Kilpatrick Baird offers words of encouragement: “Helping others doesn’t require you to be perfect. If you’re curious and willing to learn, you can make a real difference.” She hopes that the graduates will take that lesson with them as they embark on their futures. “You don’t have to be the smartest person in the room; just know who those people are and work together,” she adds, underlining the importance of collaboration in creating change.
To learn more about the inspiring work of Geaux 4 Kids, interested individuals can explore the organization’s website. As Shreveport continues to thrive on its community spirit, it’s heartening to see leaders like Kilpatrick Baird paving the way for future generations dedicated to making a positive difference.
