Empowering Our Youth, Transforming Our Communities: Why Operation Youths In Action Matters
In every thriving community, there is a common thread — neighbors who take pride in their streets, care for one another, and invest in the next generation. In Shreveport, Louisiana, Operation Youths In Action is helping weave that thread tighter than ever. This grassroots organization, founded by Marco LaCour Sr., is creating opportunities for young people to roll up their sleeves, get involved, and see just how much of an impact they can have on the world around them.
Operation Youths In Action isn’t just about cleaning up trash or mowing lawns — though the youth-led clean-up days and free lawn care services for seniors are powerful acts of service. It’s about instilling a sense of ownership, responsibility, and pride in young people. When a teenager picks up litter on their own street or delivers a box fan to an elderly neighbor, they begin to see themselves as part of something bigger. They become caretakers of their own community — a role that builds both character and confidence.
For a city like Shreveport, where many neighborhoods have faced neglect or a lack of resources, the presence of an organization like O.Y.I.A. is transformative. It gives young people a positive, visible outlet for their energy. It creates opportunities for intergenerational connection, as youth interact with seniors and learn the importance of giving back. And it helps shift narratives — showing that when given the tools and encouragement, today’s youth are more than capable of being agents of change.
The beauty of Operation Youths In Action lies in its simplicity and its heart. The tools are often basic — trash bags, lawn mowers, water bottles, pizza after a long day of service. But the lessons run deep. Every project teaches youth about leadership, teamwork, and the impact of small actions. Every handshake with a grateful neighbor builds trust and connection. And every cleaned-up block sends a message that this is a community that values itself — and its young people.
As this movement continues to grow, so too does its potential to shape Shreveport’s future. Operation Youths In Action is more than a nonprofit — it’s a village in motion. It’s a reminder that when we invest in our youth, we invest in the health and pride of our entire community. And as these young leaders rise up, they leave behind not just cleaner streets, but a legacy of empowerment and hope.