Beacon Community Connections is a 501(c)3 nonprofit working to build community by making connections. Our mission is to empower people in need through collaboration, connection, and advocacy for individual wellness and community-wide quality of life. Our work focuses on delivering connected social care to individuals and families. We believe we are better together.

In August of this year, I had the pleasure of meeting Emile Myers, a 13-year-old with a mission to help others. Every year, for the past five years, Emile has hosted a Hot Cocoa fundraiser in his front yard to benefit a local charity. This year, after careful consideration, Emile chose Beacon as the recipient and has set a goal of raising $20,000. 100% of the money raised will go to Beacon’s social care navigation, specifically to our Youth Suicide Prevention Program. These funds will allow us to help more teens and children struggling with suicide along with their families.

Join Emile and me on Friday, December 8th, from 6-9pm in Bendel Gardens for hot cocoa, gumbo, music, and lots of holiday spirit. Check out the article below for more details. Happy Holidays!

To support Emile’s efforts today, click on this link to purchase a mug or become a sponsor.

Paypal Donation Page

Earlier this month, Mr. J turned 35. He had been released from prison just a few months earlier and was contemplating a lonely birthday and holiday season. Upon release, the Reentry Hub Navigation Team ensured Mr. J had the basics (food, clothing, and shelter). Then, they worked to prepare him for a job search. With the help of new interview clothes, Mr. J went on a job interview and secured employment right before Thanksgiving. Our team is now focused on finding him a permanent place to live.

After receiving the needed guidance, support, and care, Mr. J sent his Navigation Team the following message: “I turned 35 today! I want to really express my gratitude and thankfulness for what you all have done for me. I'm not worthy of much from my past mistakes. I lost everything when drugs took over my life. I truly don't know what I would have done or become without the opportunity you gave me. I haven't had a real Thanksgiving in 14 years, I'll have one this year. I'm blessed, and I don't know how I became so blessed. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!"

Beacon is so excited to be the beneficiary of Emile’s Holiday Hot Cocoa Fundraiser. For the past five years, Emile and his team have sold hot cocoa to raise money for worthy organizations in Acadiana. When we talked to Emile about all the things Beacon does for our community, our Youth Suicide Prevention program resonated with him. 100% of the proceeds from this event will be used to support youth and families struggling with suicide. His goal is to raise $20,000!

You can purchase mug for $25 with options to pick up your mug at the event, have it delivered on December 6th or shipped for an extra $10.

Sponsorship opportunities are also still available.

Click on our Paypal Donation Page to invest in Beacon and support Emile.

Follow Emile’s Hot Cocoa Fundraiser Facebook page for up-to-date information.

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If you are looking for a way to share the holiday spirit, consider buying a toy and donating it to Toys for Tots. This organization was started by the US Marine Corps in 1991 and is now one of the largest and best philanthropic organizations in America. Use the local chapter search feature on the toys for tots website to find drop off location and deadlines in your area. There are multiple locations across Louisiana.

https://www.toysfortots.org/

On November 10th, Beacon staff gathered to compete in the 2nd Annual Beacon Staff Scavenger Hunt. Six team competed over 44 hours to gather, make, and perform 75 tasks. The pictures below are some of their tasks. The A Team emerged victorious at the end. Kabrina Bland will display the Beacon Star in her office until next year’s hunt.

Email: admin@beaconconnections.org
Website: www.beaconconnections.org
Location: Lafayette, LA, USA
Phone: 337-534-8801
Facebook: facebook.com/BeaconCommunityConnections

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/beaconconnections