As we have seen once again, as a result of the catastrophic rain and floods in recent weeks,  one of the hallmarks of life in Acadiana, including business life, is an awareness of the importance of giving back.

Both during times of urgent need, and in times of less urgency, one effective way of returning wealth to the community is by way of the Community Foundation of Acadiana.

Since its founding in 2000 the Foundation has received $170m from over six thousand local donors. It has distributed $80m. It currently has a further $80m to invest in the local and regional community.

The President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Acadiana is Raymond Hebert. 

Downtown Lafayette is the economic heart of Acadiana. And it’s making a considerable effort to make itself not just the physical, but also the cultural and social center, of both the city of Lafayette and the region. Downtown Lafayette is not just a place. It’s also the name of an organization that creates and promotes activities Downtown – including Downtown Alive!, Artwalk, and a slew of other events. Downtown Lafayette is an outgrowth of the Downtown Development Authority.

Its Director of Marketing and Events is Kate Durio.

As Acadiana begins to be made whole again after the dive in the oil industry and the devastating floods, we can all begin to benefit from a resurgent economy.

Photos at Social by Gwen Aucoin.