community CONNECT
Barnhill Preserve, located in Ethel, Louisiana, has officially rebranded as Magnolia Wilds. This change reflects the organization’s commitment to enhancing wildlife conservation efforts and providing immersive educational experiences. The rebranding aims to better represent the preserve’s mission and the diverse range of species it supports. Under the same ownership, Magnolia Wilds offers the combined wonders of The Preserve, the Zip Line Adventure Park, and the Safari Park—where each visit supports a shared vision of conservation and adventure. ■ magnoliawilds.com BARNHILL PRESERVE REBRANDS AS MAGNOLIA WILDS
LSU EXPANDS ON-CAMPUS NURSING
SOUTH FOSTER DRIVE YMCA REOPENS
Louisiana State University (LSU) is set to launch a new instructional site for its nationally-recognized Bachelor of Science in Nursing program on the Baton Rouge campus in fall 2025. This expansion aims to address the state’s projected shortage of registered nurses, which is anticipated to reach 42 percent by 2030. The Baton Rouge site will offer the same rigorous curriculum as LSU Health New Orleans’ School of Nursing, delivered through a combination of in-person instruction and synchronous distance education. Clinical training will be provided through partnerships with Woman’s Hospital and Our Lady of the Lake, offering students hands-on experience in real-world healthcare settings. ■ lsu.edu
The A.C. Lewis YMCA on South Foster Drive in Baton Rouge has officially reopened following a nearly two-year, $30 million renovation project. The updated 27,000-square-foot facility features a six-lane lap pool, instructional pool, gymnasium, teen center, kid zone, sauna, steam room, hot tub, indoor walking track, and a variety of strength and cardio equipment. The YMCA aims to better serve the Mid City community with these enhanced amenities. Current operating hours are Monday through Thursday, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 1–5 p.m. ■ ymcabr.org
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Baton Rouge (CCDBR) has launched a retail rescue food program in partnership with the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. With funding from the Walmart Foundation and Feeding America, this life-saving initiative aims to reduce food waste and address food insecurity. CCDBR will collect surplus food and distribute it to clients through its monthly food distribution sites, as well as to individuals and families in need. ■ catholiccharitiesbr.org RETAIL RESCUE FOOD PROGRAM LAUNCHED TO COMBAT WASTE AND FOOD INSECURITY
10 JUNE2025 | BRPARENTS.COM
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