AC Services of Minden has announced Richard Scott as the winner of Operation Blessing 2026, a community campaign that will provide a free HVAC system to a Webster Parish resident.
The announcement was made following several weeks of public voting and community participation through the Operation Blessing campaign.
“Yesterday, we had the honor of surprising Richard Scott as the official winner of Operation Blessing 2026,” the company shared in a social media post announcing the selection.
The program recognized individuals in Webster Parish who demonstrate strength, compassion, sacrifice, and service to others. Community members submitted nominations before finalists were selected for public voting.
Scott’s story drew significant support throughout the campaign. He was nominated after a December 1, 2024, vehicle accident left him paralyzed from the chest down. Organizers previously said maintaining a safe and comfortable home environment had become a daily challenge because he is bedridden and unable to regulate body temperature.
Company officials said the initiative became about more than replacing a heating and cooling system.
“This journey has been so much more than an HVAC system,” the company wrote. “It has been about recognizing people in our community who continue to show strength, love, sacrifice, and compassion through life’s hardest moments.”
AC Services also thanked the community members who participated in the effort by submitting nominations, sharing campaign posts, and voting throughout the contest.
“Over the past several weeks, Webster Parish showed what community truly looks like,” they stated.
Scott was selected from a group of finalists that also included Barbara Goston, Gloria Moody, Sharlene Warren, and Brandi White, all of whom were recognized for service and dedication within the community.
“Congratulations again, Richard!” the company stated. “We are honored to be a small part of your story.”