Louisiana Legislature honors founders of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Conference

The Louisiana Legislature has officially recognized the 29th Annual Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Conference through Senate Concurrent Resolution 17, introduced on April 29, 2025. This resolution honors the legacy of founders Dot Thibodeaux and Danna Spayde, who dedicated over two decades to supporting grandparent caregivers in the state.

The resolution highlights the ongoing commitment of the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (GRG) initiative to uplift and empower families navigating the challenges of raising grandchildren. It expresses gratitude not only to the founders but also to their families for their visionary leadership, ensuring that the mission continues despite the loss of these influential figures.

This acknowledgment comes at a crucial time as the number of grandfamilies in Louisiana continues to grow, reflecting broader social trends where grandparents step in to care for their grandchildren due to various circumstances. The conference serves as a vital platform for sharing resources, support, and strategies among caregivers, fostering a sense of community and resilience.

While SCR 17 is largely ceremonial, it underscores the importance of recognizing and supporting grandparent caregivers, who often face unique challenges. The resolution will be transmitted to the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Information Center of Louisiana, reinforcing the state's commitment to these families.

As the conference approaches, stakeholders anticipate discussions that could lead to enhanced support systems and resources for grandfamilies, potentially influencing future legislative efforts aimed at improving the lives of these caregivers.