Coushatta Chute Chapter, NSDAR, awarded Celia Ann Willis Norman the Community Service Award for 2025. Norman, affectionately known as Ms. CAnn in Red River Parish, has lived in Coushatta all her life.  

Norman may be a retiree, but nothing about her says retired. She has been a teacher, mentor, friend, and helper to so many people in Red River Parish.  

In the presentation of the award, committee chairman Norma Lester described Mrs. Norman to perfection. “When she meets a stranger, she immediately makes a connection, inviting them to church, the Council, or community activities. Over the last 5 years, her volunteer work has ranged from the very young to the elderly. She volunteers for the RRES Bulldog Store and invites other retirees to help each month. She organizes volunteers to read in classrooms and assist with special projects such as Literacy Night. CAnn is also known for her vocal cheerleading at sporting events.”

Norman is a leader at First Methodist Chuch Coushatta. She has spent many hours teaching Sunday School, directing VBS crafts and story time, and welcoming visitors by asking them to sit with her at church.  

Giving back to the community’s elderly is also one of her passions. Norman formed a Helping Hands Committee that provides monthly activities for residents of the local nursing home and those in day care at the Council on Aging. They enjoy the birthday parties, decorations, crafts, and sing-alongs of favorite hymns and songs.  

When a family is struggling with a disaster or illness, she quickly reaches out to agencies and friends for help. She passes out food cards during holidays and makes numerous home visits.  

“Celia Norman is a true Community Service Volunteer. Coushatta Chute Chapter is proud to say Thanks to CAnn for taking care of Red River Parish Citizens from young to old.”