Over 150 people gathered at the Prudhomme Rouquier House Dec. 15 for dinner, entertainment and community betterment. The evening marked Natchitoches’ Dream Foundation’s 14th annual Party With a Purpose. A band played outside for partygoers while a DJ played inside the house. Thelma Benjamin and her friends provided some of the best catering to ever grace the Prudhomme-Rouquier House.

The foundation awarded $500 scholarships to three area high school seniors to help them achieve their dreams for the future. Natchitoches Central’s Steven R. Harris, Jr., Lakeview’s Alexis Smith and the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts’ Thomas Parker were recognized for their achievements at the event. Mr. Harris hopes to continue his studies at Howard University in Biology/Pre-Med. Ms. Smith will be attending Northwestern State University where she will be majoring in Nursing. Mr. Parker will be pursuing computer science and animation. The students were selected by a panel of community members who considered each applicant’s academic achievement, essay, and community involvement.

The evening was more than scholarships and fun however. The foundation also collected toys for needy area children with each person in attendance bringing in a new toy as part of their admission to the event. The collected toys will be distibuted by the Natchitoches Sheriff’s Department to needy parish children.

The Dreams Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit. Persons interested in helping further their good works in the community may contact Mr. Cloyd Benjamin at 318-352-7575