New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity
NOAHH builds new homes in partnership with skilled volunteers, sponsors and partnered families. NOAHH is building Musicians’ Village, a group of homes and a community center for displaced musicians and other partner families. Needs: land donations, volunteers, sponsors, pick-up trucks, fork lifts.
habitat-nola.org
(504) 861–2077
Rusted Up Beyond All Recognition Bikes
Relief workers found hundreds of abandoned bikes amid the ruins of New Orleans. Once fixed, these bikes were put to good use by residents. RUBARB is now a full-scale community bike shop offering workshops, maintenance assistance and an Earn a Bike program. Needs: volunteers, tools, bike parts.
rubarbike.org
Café Reconcile
Café Reconcile, funded largely by the Emeril Lagasse Foundation, served free hot meals after Katrina. Today, it offers literacy programs, life-skills training and job placement in hospitality and construction industries. Needs: tutors, volunteers.
cafereconcile.com
(504) 568–1157
Animal Rescue New Orleans
ARNO rescued animals displaced by Katrina and reunited them with their families. Today, locals and volunteers continue rescue programs and organize animal adoptions. Needs: veterinary supplies, dry cat food, aluminum food pans, gift cards, newspaper.
animalrescueneworleans.org
(504) 571–1900
Trinity Christian Community
After Katrina, TCC volunteers (including AmeriCorps members) reopened seven schools and rebuilt 1,500 homes. Today, they’re reopening their eighth school, while providing programs to kids and seniors. Needs: volunteers, furniture, appliances, school supplies
trinitychristiancommunity.org
(504) 482–7822
Read Harry Connick, Jr.’s inspiring story about having faith after Katrina.