With a background in costuming for films, TV shows and even Cirque du Soleil, Alison Parker was always surrounded by clothes, costumes and fabric. Parker picked up sewing skills in home economics classes, but she realized that resource isn’t always…
Sometimes the right idea comes along at just the right time. When Josh D’Arcangelo and Stuart Seiler decided to start a nonprofit benefiting New Orleans, they settled on the idea of providing computers and internet access to students in need…
During the COVID-19 outbreak in the Greater New Orleans area, Jasmine Araujo noticed that people living unhoused were being neglected and left to their own devices during the quarantine. Araujo quickly mobilized a group of educators and activists who were…
As a growing coalition of congregations and community-based organizations, Together New Orleans is a new nonprofit dedicated to affecting real change in our city. A more localized version of Together Louisiana, one of the largest grassroots organizations in the state,…
It began with a simple idea: Andreas Hoffmann wanted to give back to New Orleans after Katrina. So he made his job as a touring musician carbon-neutral by installing energy-efficient CFL and LED light bulbs in band members’ homes. Soon…
At the High Level Speech and Hearing Center, over 25,000 patients received help with their speech and hearing issues in the past three years alone. By treating and diagnosing speech, hearing and dizziness disorders, the center helps people across the…
One organization is dedicated to restoring the New Orleans tree canopy in a fun, spirited way that fits the city’s vibe. Originally founded by Monique Pilie as Hike For Katreena, the NOLA Tree Project was created to help replant the…
As a social worker in a local high school, Danielle Wright saw first-hand how many young people in the New Orleans area were exposed to trauma at a young age. These adverse experiences negatively impacted their academic success in school,…
While working as a science teacher in New Orleans, Todd Wackerman faced a common dilemma: lab materials are often outside the school’s budget. To help other educators facing a similar issue, Wackerman created the STEM Library Lab, an equipment share…
Combining philanthropy with a flair for fashion, one local sock company is making a positive difference. By purchasing a pair of socks from New Orleans-based Ell & Atty, shoppers can help give back to the local community as well. Benjamin…
Located on River Road, the American Cancer Society Patrick F. Taylor Hope Lodge is a friendly sanctuary for people who travel to New Orleans in need of cancer treatment. A conversation with…
Twice a month, volunteers at the Crescent City Cafe serve up a free, restaurant-style breakfast for guests who are facing income difficulties or homelessness. For over 10 years now, the cafe has welcomed anyone who steps through its doors with…
If you like finding new ways to serve the New Orleans community, one local radio program has you covered. “Voluntold Ya!” with host Emily Leitzinger, airing every Wednesday, 4-5 p.m. on WHIV 102.3, presents new ways to get engaged with…
For 165 years, The Leitz-Eagan family has helped families in New Orleans care for loved ones after their passing. At age 29, Joe Eagan is now the Funeral Director for three funeral and cemetery facilities in the greater New…
New Orleans has long been praised for its vibrant hospitality culture, and the latest generation of industry professionals are using their skills to give back in a major way. Ralph Mahana, who was named General Manager of Windsor Court Hotel…
Since its start in 2011, Dat Dog has grown from a single, modest hot dog stand into a New Orleans dining institution with locations all over Louisiana and now Texas. With its all-beef hot dogs, alligator, duck and crawfish sausages,…
One local organization is dedicated to helping New Orleans artists and nonprofits succeed in a big way. Launched as a joint program of the Arts Council of New Orleans, Tipitina’s Foundation and Tulane Law School, The Ella Project offers high-level,…
Youth volunteers have been a part of the Audubon legacy in New Orleans for decades. Thirty-five years ago the Jr. Keeper Program at the zoo was launched, followed by the AquaKids at the Aquarium volunteer group 15 years later. Now,…
At Sugar Roots Farm, New Orleans kids of all ages learn about sustainable farming, composting and the humane treatment of farm animals. Located within Orleans Parish, this unique farm gives local kids a firsthand look at sustainable agriculture. Sugar…
For many people, contributing to a published book is a lifelong dream. However, few achieve it while still in college. For Loyola studio arts major Paul Kalil Roach, this dream is already a reality. Roach is a published illustrator…
After meeting at a friend’s birthday party, Baye Tilson and McKensie Kirchner (pictured) had a conversation about taking yoga outside the studio. What if yoga meetups could take place during bachelorette parties or at beer gardens? They decided to host…
Music, philanthropy and fun all collided on November 17, 2018, when Rach and Bach rocked out with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. Amateur musicians Dr. Quinn Peeper (Rach) and Attorney Michael Harold (Bach) performed “Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in…
Inspired by the renowned Café Reconcile, Café Hope opened its doors in 2010. Its mission was simple: Recruit young people and train them for hospitality industry jobs by running a real-life café. And as Café Hope’s Executive Director Luis…
The fine dining restaurant Arnaud’s is celebrating its 100-year anniversary in 2018, which is quite the achievement for the French Quarter establishment. Although its Jazz Brunch menu and Creole cuisine are well known in New Orleans and abroad, the restaurant…
First responders are the definition of everyday heroes. Trained to help others during natural disasters and other catastrophes, these workers are indispensable. Fortunately, one New Orleans organization is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of first responders – and they…
Inspired by the organization’s devotion to public service, Damon Burns became the President and CEO of the Finance Authority of New Orleans about two years ago. Since that time, he has furthered the organization’s mission to provide a better quality…
Anna’s Place offers an after-school program, Saturday program and summer camp aimed at promoting academic, cultural and artistic education for children in the Greater New Orleans community. By combining these aspects with holistic health care and lifestyle education, this organization…
Can a designer sock company help alleviate some of the issues associated with homelessness? Austin McCann, Founder and CEO of Open Thread, thinks so. After coming up with the idea for a graduate school project at Loyola University New Orleans,…
Executive Assistant & Liaison to CEO Blonka Mack, Blonka Movement
Founder, Pontchartrain Mushrooms
