Kickoff Event Announced for 2024 Season of the 24 Hour Citizen Project in Lafayette

The 24 Hour Citizen Project proudly announces the kickoff of its 2024 season, marking the 8th year of this transformative community initiative. The kickoff event will take place on Wednesday, June 19th at 6 PM at The-Yard Studios, located at 436 E Vermilion St Ste. 103, Lafayette, LA 70501.

Attendees will be able to learn about the project, upcoming events, and the application process for the pitch event. Past citizen teams will share their experiences, and there will be collaborative discussions on ideas for community improvements. The kickoff event also marks the opening for idea submissions, with the application deadline on August 29, 2024.

The 24 Hour Citizen Project provides a platform for community members to pitch their ideas to improve Lafayette. Over the course of two days, citizen teams refine their presentations and project ideas through mentorship from local experts and then pitch to a panel of backers, aiming to turn their visions into reality. This initiative fosters collaboration, creativity, and civic engagement.

The main event for this year’s 24 Hour Citizen Project will be held at the Acadiana Center for the Arts on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at 6 PM. The public is encouraged to attend and support the participating citizen teams.

Since its inception in 2016, the 24 Hour Citizen Project and its backers have provided over $155,000 in funding for 33 citizen-led projects. Notable projects funded during the 2023 event include Sensory Grooves, a sensory-filled prom for special needs teenagers; Abby’s Acres, which provides bees, birds, and bat boxes for the Veterans community; Acadiana Art Closet, which creates mini art libraries; Fais Doo Doo, which installs pet waste stations downtown; and Barbers Boys and Books, which installs little libraries in barber shops to increase literacy.

Butch Roussel, founder of the 24 Hour Citizen Project, expressed his excitement for the new season, saying, “We're thrilled to celebrate our 8th year, reflecting on the incredible impact our participants have made. This kickoff is a testament to the community's dedication and innovative spirit.”

For more information about the 24 Hour Citizen Project and to explore previously funded projects, visit 24hourcitizenproject.com or contact Butch Roussel directly at info@24hourcitizenproject.com