Celebrating Leadership and Impact: Kelli Todd Honored with 2025 Angel Award

Louisiana CASA proudly congratulates Kelli Todd, Executive Director of Volunteers for Youth Justice (VYJ), on being named one of ten recipients of the 2025 Angel Award, presented by the Louisiana Blue Foundation.

The Angel Awards celebrate Louisiana’s unsung heroes, those who dedicate their time, talent, and energy to improving the lives of children across the state. Each year, ten individuals are selected for their extraordinary service and leadership, with each honoree’s organization receiving a $30,000 grant to further their mission.

For Kelli, this honor is a reflection of more than two decades of compassion-driven leadership and a deep commitment to the children and families of Northwest Louisiana.

Kelli’s journey with Volunteers for Youth Justice began in 2004, when she became a CASA volunteer. Her dedication quickly stood out, and she joined the organization as a CASA Supervisor in 2006 before advancing to CASA Program Director in 2011. In 2013, she was appointed as Volunteers for Youth Justice Executive Director, a role through which she has continued to grow and strengthen VYJ’s impact across the community.

Under her leadership, Volunteers for Youth Justice has grown from a small team of around 10 staff members and 50–70 volunteers to a robust organization with approximately 80 employees and more than 300 volunteers, serving over 10,000 children per year. This growth mirrors Kelli’s belief in the power of community collaboration, compassion, and adaptability to meet evolving needs.

Today, VYJ provides a wide range of programs designed to advocate for, mentor, and empower children and youth. In addition to the CASA program, VYJ oversees The Family Resource Center (FRC), the Youth Empowerment Center, GEMS & GENTS Mentoring, JUMPSTART, Teen Court, Conflict Resolution, TBRI®, and court programs such as FINS (Families in Need of Services), TASC and the School Resource Center housed in 4 Caddo Parish schools. Together, these programs create a network of support that helps children and families overcome challenges and build brighter futures.

Kelli’s recognition as an Angel Award recipient not only celebrates her individual achievements but also shines a light on the incredible work being done by Volunteers for Youth Justice.

Louisiana CASA is proud to have leaders like Kelli among our statewide network, individuals who embody the spirit of advocacy, innovation, and heart that define our mission. Congratulations, Kelli, on this well-deserved honor, and thank you for your continued dedication to Louisiana’s children!