The Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum and The Center for Children & Families are partnering to create new opportunities for foster families in Northeast Louisiana through a grant awarded to the Children’s Museum by the Jock Scott Foundation.
The grant will support two special foster family events designed to provide opportunities for connection, learning and play. During each event, foster families will have the opportunity to enjoy time together exploring and playing at the Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum. Foster parents will then participate in a special training workshop provided by The Center for Children & Families while children engage in a fun, age-appropriate activity within the museum.
The partnership will also provide free museum passes to The Center’s Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program. These passes will allow CASA volunteers to use the museum as an opportunity for children and their families to spend meaningful time together during CASA visits. “Our work is centered on ensuring children and families have the support they need to thrive,” said Dr. Matt Nappier of The Center for Children & Families. “This partnership allows us to support foster families in a unique way by creating opportunities for connection and play while also providing parents with valuable education and support.”
“Play is an important way for children and families to connect, learn, and build relationships,” said Melissa Saye of the Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum. “We are excited to welcome foster families into the museum and create a space where they can enjoy time together, while also supporting foster parents through opportunities for education and training.”
For children in foster care, opportunities to play, learn and build positive memories with their caregivers can be especially meaningful. The partnership recognizes that supporting children also means supporting the foster families who care for them. By combining family- centered experiences with caregiver education and training, the two organizations are creating opportunities that support the well-being of the entire family.
The free museum passes provided through the partnership will also enhance the work of CASA volunteers. CASA volunteers advocate for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect and work to ensure that children’s needs are heard and addressed. Having access to a welcoming, child-centered environment can provide CASA volunteers with an additional setting to build relationships and spend meaningful time with the children and families they serve.
Also, be on the lookout for these events happening soon.
October 2026 Skeletons on Tower 2026-sponsorships available!
October 8, 6 PM-10 PM Hard Hat Party www.nelcm.org
About the Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum: The Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum provides hands-on learning and play experiences that encourage children and families to explore, discover and learn together. Through interactive exhibits and educational opportunities, the museum supports the development and well-being of children and families throughout Northeast Louisiana. To learn more about the museum, visit www.nelcm.org
About The Center for Children & Families: Founded in 1999, The Center for Children & Families exists to promote safe, healthy environments for children and families through advocacy, counseling, education, and prevention. Today, the organization operates four regional locations and serves thousands of clients annually, helping them overcome life's most difficult challenges and build brighter futures. To learn more, visit www.standforhope.org.