Matt Young
Sr. Director of Community Engagement
Matt leads Visit Lake Charles’ community engagement efforts with a focus on building strong relationships with local organizations, businesses, and partners that enhance the visitor experience across Southwest Louisiana. As Senior Director of Community Engagement, he serves as the primary point of contact for nonprofit and community partnerships, identifying opportunities that align local initiatives with tourism and destination development goals.
In his role, Matt represents Visit Lake Charles at community and business meetings, fosters collaboration with organizations that impact tourism. He also supports internal engagement efforts, including coordinating staff volunteer opportunities and leading programs that strengthen connections between Visit Lake Charles and the community. In addition, he serves on the Lake Charles City Council representing District D, bringing a public service perspective that further informs his work in destination development.
Before joining Visit Lake Charles, Matt held senior communications roles with the City of Lake Charles and the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana. His background includes managing large-scale events, crisis communications, and cultural branding initiatives.
Awards & Accomplishments:
- Leadership Louisiana Graduate (2024)
- Visit Lake Charles Lasting Impression Award (2019)
- Humanitarian of the Year, Family & Youth Counseling Agency (2019)
- Citizen of the Arts, Mayor’s Arts Awards (2014)
- Leadership Southwest Louisiana Graduate (2014)
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