We envision a future where our citizens believe it’s the best place to live & work
We’re working to create a community where all residents feel proud and satisfied with our city and region. By improving the overall quality of life, we seek to foster a greater sense of belonging, well-being, & opportunity for everyone.
Quality of life is the nexus point of our six areas of focus
Aspects of all of these levers of opportunity must be present for communities to continue to thrive. Our top priority is to continue executing impactful projects that enhance our community. We actively participate in and lead initiatives that are focused on improving our city’s cultural richness, vitality, and our quality of life.
Historical projects furthering quality of life include:
Forum 225
We established Forum 35 in 1994 to create opportunities for young professionals in Baton Rouge to grow philanthropically, professionally, and civically. Three decades later, Forum has evolved into Forum 225, the premiere young professionals’ organization in the capital region.
University Lakes
Announced at our 50th anniversary as a community initiative, this project aims to improve the six-lake system near LSU. The restoration of these water bodies provides an exceptional case study in the value of collaboration and persistence. After years of partnership with civic leaders, construction is now underway at the lakes. The resulting outcome will yield increased resiliency against flood waters while providing enhanced recreational opportunities year-round.
Shaw Center for the Arts
In 2003, we made a commitment to complete an entire downtown block for the arts. This led to the establishment of the Shaw Center for the Arts, a collaborative effort involving LSU, the city-parish, the state, the Shaw Group Inc., and philanthropists as our partners. Today, the center has served as a hub for gathering, having hosted hundreds of performances and community events.
Curation and restoration of public art
The Baton Rouge Area Foundation first stepped into the world of public art when we helped fundraise and serve as fiscal agent for the commissioning of the Martin Luther King Monument in downtown Baton Rouge. Nearly 25 years after its installation, we kicked off an initiative to restore this monument – and 7 others across the city – to its former glory. This work enabled an annual budget allocation to be made from the City of Baton Rouge to the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge to continue installing and maintaining art for the public good throughout the parish.
Music and Entertainment Study
We are supporting an entertainment study for the capital region to coordinate the refurbishment of three local venues – the River Center, PMAC, and Memorial Stadium. A coordinated plan can help Baton Rouge to attract global artists, strengthen the city’s music industry, and create a dynamic entertainment hub for community enrichment. Results of the study are expected to be published in summer of 2024.
For More Information
Contact us for more information or to get involved.
Eric Dexter
Vice President of Civic Leadership Initiatives