On our last night in New Orleans, the 19 students and 6 faculty of this year’s Service trip are taking some time to reflect on our experiences.
Seeing the lower 9th ward – with some new construction from Habitat for Humanity and the Make it Right Project, but also many houses still in a state of destruction, surrounded by empty lot after empty lot. Experiencing the current state of the bayou, and learning about the costal erosion and the danger the city of New Orleans faces because of it.
Dana Brozost-Kelleher and Iman Abdul-Ali playing in the school yard with students.
Remember playing at recess with students of Mcdonogh 42, a charter school in the Treme area who’s students were all affected by Katrina in one way or another, and building them a rooftop garden to enjoy.
As all of the students experienced through group work, it’s difficult to even think about losing your family, your most treasured possessions, and the house you grew up in. Looking around at the destruction and emptiness that still exists in the city is the reason we’re here, and the reason we need to keep coming back, and keep contributing as much time as we can, to help rebuild a city rich with culture, diversity, and history.
the BURKE 2010 NOLA team leaning up against a newly cemented levee wall in the Lower 9th Ward.
Well done Burke!