Starla Townsend, director of Camp Minden’s Youth Challenge Program, will be the guest speaker Thursday at Minden Lions Club.
Mrs. Townsend is a graduate of Northeast Louisiana University, earning her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education.
She began her career in education as a 5th grade teacher in Catahoula Parish, teaching math and history for 5 years in the public education system. She and her husband, a member of the LA National Guard, learned of the Youth Challenge Program in 1999. They both joined the Program in 1999; she as an instructor while he served as cadre. However, in 2002, CPL Townsend was asked to assist in the opening of a YCP at Camp Minden. Mrs. Townsend and her family made the move the Minden and she continued her calling teaching at risk youth.
Through the years, she has progressed through the ranks to Lead Instructor and then acting Deputy Director and now Director of the Program. She has the honor of being the first civilian and first female to hold that position in Louisiana.
Townsend is an active member of the Pentecostals of Haughton, teaching adult classes and working with the worship team. She and her husband, Joe, are residents of Minden, and enjoy traveling, eating out, and loving on the grandkids.
Townsend will be introduced by (Ret.) Col. Carl Thompson.
Minden Lions meet at noon every Thursday at the American Legion Hall on Pine Street.
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