St. Bernard Project (SBP)
For the final day of service, we returned to the opportunity houses we were working on yesterday with the St. Bernard Project (SBP). Both groups (at Flood and Forstall streets) continued to give their houses structure by raising walls and forming window spaces. Although it was hot, everyone stayed strong by grouping up and working as a team. Overall, we were able to put a lot of work into the two homes over the last two days. We were all very proud of the work we did, because we know the houses we worked on will change someone’s life when they’re complete. (Will)
During my time building at the construction site, I realized the amount of time and effort that gets put into every project to make sure that it’s successful. Especially the project leaders in the AmeriCorps program who are involved in repairing damaged and/or building on destroyed vacant lots and turning them into homes that are reserved for low-income families – not only just in New Orleans but places all across the country. (Armiyah)
SBP has opened my eyes to realize the need for volunteers especially after the media coverages regarding hurricanes or other natural disasters that leave communities devastated end. The program gives an opportunity for growth and change within a community, which changes the lives of the residents of the devastated area to have a new home. The members of the project leaders where incredibly helpful in their teachings, which gave me a large level of confidence to complete each task given to me. Even though it was a long day, it was worth it and special knowing I’m giving back to a community and making materials into a home to be loved and cherished. (Armiyah)
Mardi Gras World
Our next stop was to Mardi Gras World. Mardi Gras World is an organization that draws, sculpts, paints, and eventually sets up floats for Mardi Gras. We were able to take a tour where we learned the history of Mardi Gras, saw the process behind float production, and were able to see hundreds of floats. The tour was a very special experience, as it gave us an incredible view of a large part of the New Orleans culture. After the tour, we all were able to create our very own Mardi Gras masks!
Dinner, Debrief, and Dessert
Next, we all went into a souvenir shop where we were able to get some New Orleans merchandise. After that, we went to Venezia for pizza, thanks to the incredible Lazarro family. We finished the day off with some warm cookies at the hotel as we discussed the trip as a whole. Overall, this service-learning trip was a wonderful experience for us all as we were able to learn and experience many new things that we will never forget. Thank you to everyone who made this trip possible!
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New Orleans Service-Learning Trip: Day 1 Recap
