By Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
A half-century of service and compassion was celebrated in spirited fashion on Monday, June 16, as the Bossier Council on Aging (BCOA) marked its 50th anniversary with a vibrant community event at its main center in Bossier City.
The milestone celebration drew seniors, supporters, city officials, and community partners for a day filled with music, memories, and recognition. Festivities kicked off at 10 a.m., and by 11 a.m., the Bossier Chamber of Commerce held a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony to honor five decades of dedicated service to Bossier Parish’s aging population.
Founded in 1975, BCOA has been a cornerstone in the parish, offering services ranging from meal delivery and transportation to wellness checks and social activities. The event served not only as a celebration but also as a reaffirmation of the Council’s enduring mission to help seniors live independently with dignity.
“This celebration is a testament to the vital role the Bossier Council on Aging plays in our community,” said Tamara Crane, Executive Director of BCOA. “For 50 years, we’ve been committed to helping seniors live independently with dignity—and today we honor everyone who has made that possible.”
Adding to the day’s excitement, Rep. Raymond Crews, R-Bossier City, announced that House Bill 460—recently passed by the Louisiana Legislature and pending the Governor’s signature—allocates $50,000 specifically for BCOA. The funding will be used to expand the Council’s home-delivered meal program to seven days a week for six months.
“$50,000 to support our meals program. We will use this to increase home delivered meals to 7 days a week for 6 months,” Crane noted.
The bill also includes funding for dementia specialists and various councils on aging across the state, reinforcing Louisiana’s broader commitment to senior services.
The celebration also featured a thoughtful donation from the Commission for Women of Bossier City, which gifted 50 electric fans to help local seniors stay cool during the summer. “It’s a small gesture with a big impact,” Crane said. “These types of partnerships are what keep our mission strong.”
Guests enjoyed food from Taqueria El Eden and CalTex Barbecue, and cooled off with New Orleans–style snowballs served by Streetcar Snoballs. Classic cars from the 1970s—when the Council was founded—were on display, delighting attendees with a nostalgic nod to the past.
Lisa Johnson, President and CEO of the Bossier Chamber of Commerce, praised the Council’s legacy: “Congratulations to the Bossier Council on Aging for 50 years of operation. The Council on Aging has been a staple in our community with the services they provide to our seniors. Here’s to 50 more years.”
The Bossier Parish Police Jury had previously honored BCOA with a formal proclamation on May 21, recognizing the Council for its long-standing contributions to the health, independence, and quality of life of local seniors.
“Bossier Council on Aging has been a pillar of care and dignity for our seniors,” said Jury President Glenn Benton. “This proclamation reflects our deep appreciation for the organization’s compassion and impact.”
With five decades behind them and new resources on the horizon, the Bossier Council on Aging is poised to continue its vital mission for generations to come.
“Our philosophy has always been that senior citizens should live independently with dignity for as long as possible,” Crane said. “Our staff and volunteers are dedicated to listening, helping, and respecting every individual we serve.”
For more information on services or volunteer opportunities, visit bossiercoa.org.
