Bulletin for September 1, 2026

Hogs For The Cause, Rene Louapre IV

Rene Louapre was born and raised in New Orleans and attended Washington and Lee University, where he majored in European History. He decided to go to law school at Louisiana State University after that. Wondering what he would do with a law degree, he doubled down and got a Master of Laws in Health Law from St. Louis University. He then returned to New Orleans. While working at Milling Benson Woodrward, he reconnected with a childhood friend, Becker Hall, and they had an idea to roast a whole pig. That one conversation gave rise to Hogs for the Cause, which has grown to the nation’s premier pediatric brain cancer focused charity. Hogs for the Cause puts on a two-day BBQ and music festival, which brings in over 80 teams from around the country to New Orleans. Having only taken one year off in 2020, Hogs for the Cause is now the longest continually operating festival in New Orleans. Since its founding in 2009, Hogs for the Cause has given out or pledged over $19 million dollars to families and pediatric cancer programs around the country. Rene is married to his law school sweetheart, Lindsay Louapre, and they have two daughters, Lisette and Cecilia, as well as a basset hound named Geraldine.

Rene Louapre shared information about Hogs For the Cause became what it is today. They have provided the on-campus housing, known as the ‘Hogs House,’ which provides a comfortable and supportive place for families with children receiving ongoing treatment at Children’s Hospital of New Orleans, offering them a home away from home during their most challenging times. Hogs For the Cause has also provided on-campus housing, “Hogs House,” at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital in Baton Rouge, LA, all Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida.