Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
Hundreds of community members gathered in Bossier City on Saturday, April 26, for the Get Involved Day hosted by Plant A Seed In Our Youth Foundation Inc., a day dedicated to youth empowerment, community service, and—this year—a poignant celebration of the life and legacy of Mrs. Lynn Nelson-Stevens.
The annual event took on deeper meaning as it honored Lynn, a trailblazer in nonprofit leadership, a passionate advocate for youth and disability rights, and a beloved mentor to many—including Albert Dyer, the Foundation’s Executive Director and event organizer.
“Lynn wasn’t just involved—she was invested,” Dyer said during the opening remarks. “She mentored me. She inspired countless others. And through every initiative, every conversation, she made people feel seen and valued. That’s the legacy we’re continuing today.”
Among those in attendance was Aaron Stevens, Lynn’s husband, who offered moving reflections on her life and enduring impact.
“Lynn believed deeply in community,” he said. “Her life was about lifting others. And seeing so many people come together in her name… it’s a powerful reminder that her work continues.”
Lynn Nelson-Stevens quickly became a cornerstone of the region after her relocation nearly two decades ago. Her involvement stretched across numerous civic and nonprofit organizations, including Norwela Boy Scout Troop 64, the SUSLA Roy Griggs School of Business Advisory Board, the Mayor’s ADA Advisory Council, the Bossier Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Committee, The Renesting Project, Hope for the Homeless, Step Forward North LA, and the Rotary Club of Bossier City.
Professionally, Lynn’s leadership was transformative. Her roles with Providence House, United Way of Northwest Louisiana, and Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana led to over $55 million in secured funding for critical services. She was instrumental in restoring 2-1-1 services in Northwest Louisiana, establishing shelters for domestic violence survivors, and launching reentry programs for formerly incarcerated individuals.
Despite living with FSH muscular dystrophy, a condition that eventually confined her to a wheelchair, Lynn remained a powerful force for progress. She broke barriers in advocacy and accessibility, earning honors including the Governor’s Gold Award for Disability Advocacy, KTAL’s Remarkable Woman finalist, AFP Fundraising Executive of the Year, and North Webster Chamber of Commerce Person of the Year.
“She changed lives because she believed people could change. And she lived every day with purpose,” Aaron Stevens shared.
The event brought together a broad network of community partners, including Bossier High School coaches, Goodwill, Volunteers for Youth Justice, Bossier Missionary Outreach, Word of Faith Christian Fellowship, Job Corps, Spud Eilson the Ice Cream Man, City Council member Debra Ross, and Bossier Parks & Recreation. Special thanks were extended to Mrs. Sabrina Jackson for sponsoring the community meal.
As volunteers worked, shared stories, and poured into local youth, Plant A Seed staff reminded all in attendance that the work of building stronger communities doesn’t end in a day—it begins there.
“Today, we planted more than seeds,” Dyer said. “We honored a woman whose roots still run deep in this community. And we recommitted ourselves to growing something even greater.”
In honoring Lynn Nelson-Stevens, the 2025 Get Involved Day wasn’t just a day of service. It was a living tribute—proof that one life, lived boldly and selflessly, can inspire a movement that carries on for generations.
For more information on Plant A Seed In Our Youth Foundation, or to get involved, visit https://www.pasyf.org/ or follow them on social media.