Chris Lewis Outreach hosts Standing-Room-Only Banquet celebrating elders who built the city
Monroe, LA – The Monroe Civic Center was transformed into a joyful sanctuary of song, celebration, and unity on Friday, May 16, 2025, as more than 600 senior citizens and supporters filled the B.D. Robinson Room to capacity for the inaugural “Honoring the Blueprint: The Hands That Built Us, The Hearts That Guide Us” banquet.
Hosted by Chris Lewis Outreach, the event was a heartfelt tribute to the city’s elders—those whose hands laid the foundation of Monroe’s homes, churches, schools, and businesses. The celebration drew a beautifully diverse crowd from all sides of town, across generations, races, and neighborhoods, united in one purpose: to say thank you.
The atmosphere was electric. From soul-stirring gospel and the timeless voice of Mahalia Jackson to the smooth melodies of CeCe Winans and classic R&B grooves, the music moved the crowd—literally. Elders danced in the aisles, clapped along to every beat, and laughed with the kind of joy that can only come from feeling truly seen.
“There were no strangers in that room,” said Chris Lewis, a local businessman and philanthropist. “Just family—600 strong.”
Attendees were treated to a full banquet meal, live musical performances, tributes, surprise awards, and more than $3,000 in prize giveaways. The celebration was festive and emotional, blending dignity and delight in a way that left many in tears—and others on the dance floor.
A proclamation from Mayor Friday Ellis declared May 13, 2025, as “Senior Citizen’s Day” in Monroe, officially recognizing the day as a citywide holiday to honor the elders whose contributions have often gone unsung.
But behind the joy was a deeper mission. “So many of our seniors now live in isolation,” said Lewis.
“They gave their lives to building our communities, and too many now feel forgotten. This day was about restoring joy, reminding them that they are loved, valued, and still vital to our city’s future.”
Chris Lewis Outreach expressed gratitude to the many sponsors, churches, small businesses, and volunteers who made the event possible. Their support, Lewis said, “was not just a donation—it was an investment in dignity.”
With overwhelming community support and an unforgettable turnout, Lewis has announced that “Honoring the Blueprint” will return annually, growing each year to honor even more lives, legacies, and love stories.
“This is what it looks like when a city remembers where it came from,” said Lewis. “This is how we build the future—with honor, with joy, and with each other.”
“Honoring the Blueprint” Celebration of Seniors
