Looking for a responsible volunteering project in New Orleans? Camp Restore offers several programs for skilled and unskilled workers.

By Heather Newgen

In 2005 Hurricane Katrina swept through the Gulf Coast as a Category 3 storm, causing severe destruction along its path from New Orleans to Mississippi to Alabama, however, NOLA was hit the hardest after the levees failed due to poor engineering. As a result, over 1800 people died and the majority of the city flooded, causing an estimated $108 billion dollars worth of damage.

In the months following the catastrophe, support poured in worldwide and Camp Restore was an organization that was created in response to Hurricane Katrina. Years later is still working to rebuild the city with the help of volunteers.

“What began as hurricane relief has grown into efforts to address large-scale systemic challenges, such as restoring the wetlands that protect against hurricanes, supporting local schools and youth programs and helping new, innovative community nonprofits get off the ground. We achieve this through partnerships with more than 150 fellow nonprofits and churches,” their website states.

Camp Restore partners with over 80 local nonprofits, so there are plenty of volunteer projects that skilled and unskilled volunteers can do like working in a community garden, recycling Mardi Grad beads, rebuilding a home (if you have experience) and so many other projects.

Although Hurricane Katrina swept through the Gulf Coast in 15 years ago, pockets of New Orleans still needs assistance. Volunteers are always welcomed. There are several ways to give back and  Camp Restore is an organization that takes groups of volunteers or individuals who are traveling alone and want to make a small difference.

Affordable volunteer housing is offered and and available to those who prefer to stay on site at Camp Restore.

Check out the video to see what it’s like to volunteer in New Orleans and how you can give back.