Louisiana First News gives back on Founders Day of Service

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — At Louisiana First News, Founders Day is a commitment to giving back to the community we serve every day.

In honor of Founders Day, the team stepped out from behind the cameras and into the community, taking part in a full day of volunteer service around Baton Rouge.

“We really value putting Louisiana first,” said anchor Sydney Simone.

The day began at Shepherd’s Market, a local food pantry that provides groceries to families in need. There, the team helped shoppers select goods, bagged groceries, stocked shelves, and loaded cars, offering support and a smile to those facing food insecurity.

“Here in Baton Rouge, it is so important to get out and see people working together to make Baton Rouge better each and every day,” said Tim Ingram, General Manager of Louisiana First News.

In the afternoon, the team headed to Front Yard Bikes, a nonprofit organization that teaches kids how to build and repair bicycles. But the work didn’t stop at bike repair — the team got their hands dirty with gardening, cleaned the grounds, and prepared fresh fruit.

“I think it just brings a lot of excitement to the young people that, you know, when adults see a young person in action doing good, it builds a character of like ‘Man, this is really who I am. This is how people should see me each and every day — that I’m wonderful, I’m capable, I’m amazing, and the news knows it,” said Dustin LaFont, Executive Director of Front Yard Bikes.

The station’s Founders Day of Service was a way to live out the core values Louisiana First News was built on — service, trust, and community. But for the team, it was also a chance to reflect on the power of connection.

“It’s a very nostalgic moment. You know, you don’t really see kids playing outside anymore, so to see them working outdoors building bikes — and I’m learning from them as well. It kind of reminds you that lending a helping hand is not only going to benefit yourself but benefit your co-workers and the people that you work with on a daily basis,” said Simone.

It was a day full of teamwork, purpose, and heart, proving that sometimes, the most meaningful stories happen off camera.

Founders Day of Service continues on Friday as the team remains committed to honoring the mission that drives them: putting Louisiana First.

Latest News