BATON ROUGE — The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation has announced its honorees for The Angel Award, recognizing everyday Louisianians who have worked to improve the health and well-being of children across the state.

Now in its 32nd year, the annual award comes with a $30,000 grant that each honoree directs to a local nonprofit of their choosing.

"Across Louisiana, there are people who see a need in the lives of children and choose to do something about it," said Michael Tipton, president of the Louisiana Blue Foundation. "Our Angels have turned personal experiences and a commitment to their communities into meaningful action. We are honored to recognize the important work they are leading across our state."

Eight honorees were named this year from communities across Louisiana:

-Jordan Tabor of Baton Rouge founded Rain Will Bring Flowers Foundation after losing his 15-year-old son, Owen, to suicide. The foundation works through schools and communities to increase awareness, reduce stigma and help young people recognize when support is needed.

-Julia Bourgeois of Sulphur co-founded Families for Inclusion after her son was born with spina bifida. The organization works to ensure children with disabilities have access to inclusive education, play and everyday experiences.

-Tara Detiveaux of Houma leads Hope Extreme, providing support to children and families in the same under-resourced community where she grew up.

-Toccara Huckaby of Shreveport founded Girls Empowered for More Society to expand opportunities for girls, including those in group homes and the juvenile justice system, through hands-on experiences in STEM, leadership and entrepreneurship.

-Terrence Jones of Lafayette founded Believe Institute, which invests in young people through scholarships, mentorship and workforce experiences.

-Kristen Powers of Shreveport leads The Arc of Caddo-Bossier, expanding opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities from childhood through adulthood.

-Melanie Richardson of New Orleans co-founded TrainingGrounds to give families access to early intervention, developmental screenings and support during the earliest years of a child's life.

-Joey Vining of Houma founded Children's Water Safety Awareness, working to prevent childhood drownings by expanding water safety education and access to swim lessons and life jackets across the Bayou Region.

The foundation also named a Blue Angel this year, recognizing a Louisiana Blue employee who has made a difference in children's lives through volunteer service outside of their professional role.

Desiree Robertson of St. Gabriel, a senior communications strategist in the Strategic Communications division, received the honor. Robertson co-founded Family First Youth Initiative, where she provides mentorship, resources and support to children in her community, from helping students access school essentials to creating opportunities that support their education and well-being.