A graduate of Southern University and a proud alumnus of Scotlandville High School, Jason Hughes has a deep fondness for the community he grew up in and recognizes the need and opportunity for change in North Baton Rouge. Understanding that the ability to make a difference required work within the network of the place he calls home, Jason created Project 70805 in 2016 -- hoping to set an example seen by younger generations who matched his desire for community-building improvement.

Project 70805’s mission is to empower, support and increase economic and social capital in North Baton Rouge and the Greater Baton Rouge area. The goal of Project 70805 included zeroing-in on producing four major events a year -- each with a focus on service -- while informing the community of opportunities available to them. In the past, Project 70805 has hosted housing seminars, partnered with schools for back-to-school programs and LEAP-testing, fundraised for the program through car shows and a holiday toy/gift-drive; spreading a little holiday joy to the families of North Baton Rouge.

This upcoming December, Project 70805 will again host their signature Christmas Giveaway held at Hughes’ business, Capital City Collision, on December 21, 2019. Hughes is looking to expand the program this year by donating over 1000 gifts to North Baton Rouge families -- making the season a little brighter for our community’s at-risk families.