Keep Louisiana Beautiful (KLB) and Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser encourage Louisianans in all 64 parishes to get outside and volunteer for the 4th Annual Love the Boot Week, April 5-13, 2025. “You can’t beat the springtime weather in our Sportsman’s Paradise, so let’s all get out there and clean up Louisiana during Love the Boot Week,” said Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser. “Picking up litter and planting trees is not only good exercise for your health, but it also a healthy activity for your community.” Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana (Louisiana Blue) is a sponsor of Love the Boot Week. Medical Director and Vice President of Medical Management Dr. Dee Barfield encourages Louisianans to look for Love the Boot Week events near them and sign up to experience the health benefits of volunteering. “Volunteer service can help your health and help your community, making it a win-win,” said Dr. Dee Barfield. “Many studies show when you volunteer and take the time to help others, it improves your mental health and lowers your feelings of stress and anxiety. These activities release the same kind of feelgood endorphins you get from exercising. And, coming together for events like Love the Boot Week, where we’re working alongside our friends and neighbors with the shared goal of making our community healthier, cleaner, and greener gives us a sense of purpose.” The health benefits of volunteering include: Volunteering gets your mind and body moving. Regular physical activity has cardiovascular benefits and can reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels.