Board Member Spotlight
Kade Trahan
Kade and his father Troy.
What are some of your favorite things about growing up in Lake Arthur in Jeff Davis Parish?
Growing up in Lake Arthur has been a truly enriching experience for me. The slower-paced lifestyle is not just a characteristic of our town; it's a way of life that fosters close connections with family and friends. I fondly recall the days when my friends and I would ride our bikes to the local baseball park, racing each other from one end of town to the other, all while feeling a strong sense of safety and community around us. Living near water has given me countless opportunities to hunt and fish, a pastime that I cherish deeply. The work ethic instilled in us by our hardworking neighbors has been invaluable, teaching me the importance of diligence and commitment from all.
Tell us about your family’s business, Trahan Construction, and your commitment to headquartering in Lake Arthur.
I take immense pride in our family business, Trahan Construction, which has thrived through the hard work and dedication of three generations. Conversations with my father often reflect on how my grandfather, Dale, would be beaming with pride at how far we’ve come and the values we’ve maintained—honesty, integrity, and an unwavering work ethic. Keeping our headquarters in Lake Arthur has always been a dream for my grandfather, and my father passionately upheld that vision, something I wholeheartedly support. Although our growth necessitated establishing satellite offices in larger cities where we’ve had a presence for over two decades, I personally cherish our Lake Arthur office. It offers a serene atmosphere with breathtaking views, allowing us to step away from the hustle and bustle of bigger cities while still staying connected to our roots in this wonderful town.
Your experience in construction makes you an ideal champion for the Just Imagine SWLA project of Resilient and Affordable Housing. What are some key resilient features that you want others to consider when remodeling or building?
As a family, we have come to view resiliency as a cornerstone in building, particularly when it comes to creating homes. My father, grandfather, and I have always embraced the philosophy that if we’re not building with a vision for the future, we are failing ourselves and our community. Investing in resilient building practices is essential to enhance the quality of life for all. Observing the approach taken in states like Florida, where significant resources have been allocated toward Fortified Building—now embedded in their building codes—has provided invaluable lessons. Such measures significantly improve community resilience in the face of natural disasters, preventing devastating impacts like those we saw after Hurricane Laura, which can force families to leave their homes and disrupt the local economy. It’s crucial for our area to prioritize resilient housing and educate contractors, insurance agents, and the public on the research-backed benefits of Fortified Building. By doing so, we can work together to cultivate communities that are not only lasting but also prosperous for future generations.
What inspires you to give back not only as a Board member for the Community Foundation but also Fusion Five and Boy Scouts?
Philanthropy has been a core value in my family, beginning with my grandparents, who embodied the spirit of helping others. We believe in the significance of caring for one’s family and extending that care throughout the community. It’s a commitment to being actively involved in organizations that aim to leave the world in a better state than we found it. This principle has guided me since my youth, inspiring a dedication to the communities in which I live and work. I strive to honor my family’s legacy by working toward improvements that will benefit generations to come. Carrying on the values set forth over 40 years ago feels deeply fulfilling, as I continue to seek ways to uplift, empower, and improve our community.
Why should others get involved with the Community Foundation?
My involvement with the Community Foundation has been one of the most enriching experiences of my life. The alignment between its mission and my family’s values is truly remarkable. The foundation presents myriad opportunities for making meaningful contributions that enhance our community. From facilitating service-driven initiatives to establishing funds dedicated to important causes, the Community Foundation enables individuals to make lasting impacts that transcend generations. It’s inspiring to see how it has achieved extraordinary outcomes year after year, and I genuinely believe that there is something here for everyone, regardless of their background. The Community Foundation serves as a platform where diverse voices can unite to create a thriving community we can all be proud of.