Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications
The School of Human Ecology and the Education and Research in Children’s Health (ENRICH) Center at Louisiana Tech University is hosting the Bruce Everist Community Event, an evening dedicated to fostering connection, awareness, and support for children and families in our region.
The evening includes a Community Resource Fair, the world-premiere screening of the documentary Belonging, and an interview with Dr. Amanda Harrist, Emeritus Professor of Human Development and Family Science at Oklahoma State University.
The event will take place October 9 at the Lincoln Parish Library:
• 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. – Community Resource Fair
• 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. – Film Screening: Belonging
• 6:30 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. – Interview with Dr. Amanda Harrist
The documentary Belonging explores how educators and communities have the power to transform more than just children’s learning outcomes. Belonging is not just a feel-good concept. It fuels learning and shapes physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Harrist, who helped produce the film, will offer insights during an interview following the screening.
“Decades of research show that rejection and exclusion change how children’s brains learn, and in turn, how social acceptance can transform children’s outcomes,” Dr. Julie Rutledge, director of the ENRICH Center, said. “I hope this event sparks meaningful conversations about how we can build belonging for Louisiana children.”
The Community Resource Fair will feature local agencies and organizations offering services and support for children and families. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with providers, learn about available resources, and build relationships that promote community well-being.
“This event is about strengthening our community,” Dr. Matthew Thornton, director of the School of Human Ecology, said. “We’re excited to bring together local organizations, families, and professionals to share resources and engage in meaningful dialogue about how we can better support children in our community.”
The event is free and open to the public, thanks to funding from the Bruce Everist Lecture Series. Certificates of attendance for Continuing Education Credits will be available upon request. Organizations interested in participating in the Resource Fair are encouraged to RSVP by October 2, 2025, to reserve a table and receive additional event details.
