Disability advocate Alycia Anderson to speak at ARC Leadership Luncheon

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — The Arc Caddo-Bossier is hosting its Annual Leadership Luncheon on Thursday, September 18, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the LSU Shreveport Ballroom.

Emmy award-winning journalist Jacque Jovic of KTAL News 6 will host the Leadership Luncheon, one of The Arc’s most significant events. It brings together donors, civic leaders, and community supporters to celebrate their combined efforts to build opportunities for people with disabilities.

Alycia Anderson, a global advocate for disability inclusion and accessibility, will deliver the keynote address.

Host of Pushing Forward with Alycia Podcast, Anderson was born with Sacral Agenesis, a condition where the spinal cord is underdeveloped at the sacrum. She has used a wheelchair since birth and uses her personal experiences to inspire audiences to create more inclusive communities.

National publications have featured Anderson’s work, and she has partnered with global brands like Microsoft, Victoria’s Secret, and Netflix. Additionally, she modeled at NYC Fashion Week 2024.

Kristen Powers, Executive Director of The Arc Caddo-Bossier, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Alycia Anderson as our keynote speaker. Her powerful message of inclusion and her work to create more equitable communities aligns perfectly with our mission and the values we’ve upheld for over 70 years.”

The Arc began in 1954 when a group of parents sought to create more opportunities for children with disabilities. Today, The Arc serves families and people of all ages with workforce development through Frost Industries, the Conly Day Program, child education with The Arc Caddo-Bossier’s Goldman School and Child Development Centers, community engagement initiatives, residential services with eight community homes and Community Living Supports and Services (CLSS), equine-assisted services through the GREAT Program, and advocacy services.

The Leadership Luncheon costs $25 per person, and registration is open now.