Upon graduating from high school in 1973, Barbara graduated from Spencer Draughon Business College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She has been employed by various companies such as Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Louisiana, WBRZ-TV Channel 2, and the City of Baton Rouge.
She married Charles R. Thomas, II in 1974. Shortly after the birth of their third child, Barbara became a stay-at-home mom for the next several years to focus on rearing their children. Barbara and Charles are the proud parents of Talisha, Charles III, and Shannon. They are the proud grandparents of Kailen Alexis, Kynnedi Ellyse, Cydnee Anise, and Caidee Joelle.
While rearing their children, Barbara and her husband became very active in their children’s school and sports activities. Today they continue to be involved in their children’s lives, in community activities and their church. Through their community and church involvement, they began to realize a great need that existed in their community that was not being addressed. This led them to their founding of the North Baton Rouge Women's Help Center in 1991, now known as Family Values Resource Institute, Inc.
Barbara has touched the lives of the entire community. In fact, she recently received the Urban Restoration Enhancement Corporation’s Giving Hearts Award because of the impact their programs have had on the community. Additionally, Barbara:
- Has traveled to
- Has provided instruction and training for new pregnancy help centers in Ethel, Port Allen, and
- Currently serves on the National Board of Directors for LEARN, Inc. (Life Education and Resource Network).
- Has over 25 years of experience with issues concerning youth, women and children.
- Has provided lectures on numerous topics to women’s groups, youth groups, churches, etc.
- Has appeared on numerous TV and radio interviews.
- Past member of TOP Ladies of Distinction, Nonpareil Chapter, Baton Rouge.
- Received Top Ladies of Distinction’s “Sterling Silver Award” for the Status of Women.
- Was chosen as an Honorary State Representative by then Representative Melvin “Kip” Holden
- Elected to the Louisiana Republican State Central Committee
- Serves as 1st Vice President of the Republican Women of Baton Rouge
- Serves as Board Vice President of the Baton Rouge Right to Life Chapter
