Young Voices Unite: The Insight Initiative Podcast Launches in Avoyelles Parish! 🎙️

A new student-led effort is bringing important conversations to the forefront in Avoyelles Parish, giving young people a voice while addressing some of the most serious challenges facing the community.

The Avoyelles Community & Youth Coalition (ACYC) has officially launched The Insight Initiative, a podcast created and driven by local student ambassadors. The first episode, released April 21, features Avoyelles Parish Sheriff David Dauzat and focuses on substance abuse, prevention, and the real-life impact these issues have on families across the parish.

Designed to spark honest and meaningful dialogue, the podcast covers topics such as:

• Underage drinking
• Vaping
• Fentanyl awareness
• The importance of making healthy choices

But more than that, organizers say the goal is to connect generations, bringing together youth, community leaders, and families in conversations that matter.

“This is about giving our young people a voice,” organizers said. “When students are part of the conversation, real change can begin.”

Student ambassadors Chloe Miller and Alissa Hillstead took the lead in the debut episode, stepping confidently into interview roles as they spoke with Sheriff Dauzat. Their questions reflected the concerns and realities facing youth today, while also seeking guidance from law enforcement on prevention and community responsibility.

Sheriff Dauzat offered insight from the front lines, sharing his perspective on how substance abuse continues to affect individuals and families in Avoyelles Parish. His participation highlights the importance of community partnerships in addressing these ongoing challenges.

Donna DeSoto, executive director of ACYC, praised the students for their leadership and dedication, noting that the project shows what can be accomplished when young people are encouraged to step forward and engage.

Production for the podcast was handled by Wright Studios, LLC, giving the student-driven initiative a professional platform to reach a wider audience.

As the first episode begins to circulate, organizers say this is only the start. Future episodes of The Insight Initiative are expected to continue exploring issues that impact the parish, while encouraging youth involvement and community awareness.

In a rural community like Avoyelles, where connections run deep and families look out for one another, efforts like this serve as a reminder that solutions often begin close to home.

The message behind the podcast is simple but powerful, listen, learn, and lead.

For more information or to get involved, visit www.avoyellescyc.org