Local business and community leaders are joining forces to transform how Bossier residents live, work, and play.

The Bossier Innovates Foundation is partnering with the Bossier Chamber of Commerce’s Community Sustainability Committee to elevate the quality of life across Bossier Parish.

“Our mission is to drive economic, educational, and entrepreneurial growth in the region,” said Sean Green, chair of the Bossier Innovates Foundation. “Partnering with the Chamber’s Community Sustainability Committee brings even more talent and determination to help us expand that mission.”

Established in 2014, the Bossier Innovates Foundation is the 501(c)(3) nonprofit arm of the Bossier Chamber of Commerce. It plays a pivotal role in cultivating leadership, developing workforce talent, and fostering innovation throughout the region.

Guided by a coalition of business and civic leaders, the foundation continues to grow through its three pillars: education, workforce development, and community enhancement.

“The foundation works closely with Bossier City and Parish agencies to address key challenges like infrastructure, education, broadband access, and quality of life — areas that have become even more of a priority this year,” Green said. “We also invest in future leaders through the Bossier Youth Leadership Program, offer scholarships to local high school students, and connect employers with skilled workers.”

Damien Ford, chair of the Community Sustainability Committee and an architect at Mike McSwain Architect, said the collaboration is focused on practical solutions to real challenges, many of which he witnesses firsthand in his profession.

“One major hurdle we face is recruiting young professionals who perceive a lack of things to do in Bossier,” Ford explained. “We need to better communicate the career opportunities here — especially in growing sectors like technology — and make sure educators and parents are part of that conversation.”

Ford emphasized that students could find promising futures in Bossier without needing to leave for education or employment.

To tackle this perception problem and spark community pride, the committee is actively gathering input from residents to ensure their voices guide the direction of this effort.

“People have different ideas about how to improve quality of life, but the common thread is pride,” Ford said. “People want to be proud of where they live. We need to amplify who we are and why Bossier is a great place to call home.”

But the effort goes far beyond a messaging campaign. The foundation and committee are dedicating time and resources to identify and deliver a tangible project that enhances life for Bossier residents.

Their current focus: identifying next steps in elevating and growing the East Bank District — something that can further position the district as a vibrant destination for residents and newcomers alike.

“We believe actions speak louder than words,” Ford said. “When you say you’re committed to improving quality of life, putting shovels in the ground and working towards a mixed-use district shows the community that you’re serious.”

Bossier Chamber of Commerce Vice President Jessica Hemingway is optimistic about the partnership’s potential.

“Recruiting new residents and retaining current ones is essential to our future,” Hemingway said. “If we don’t actively shape and strengthen our community’s reputation, we risk stagnation. I have full confidence in the Bossier Innovates Foundation and the Community Sustainability Committee to deliver meaningful, innovative solutions.”