Community Initiatives

Love Volunteers are needed on this inspiring community development program, focusing on the real needs of the forgotten communities of New Orleans, those suffering from marginalization and neglect. 

While the USA is seen by many as a land of opportunity and wealth, the sad reality is that many who call this country home suffer from income inequality, housing insecurity and a lack of basic resources. This project aims to address these issues by supporting local organisations striving to assist low-income families and the un-housed populace. 

This program is perfect for volunteers who are passionate about equality and willing to work on a variety of tasks aimed at achieving the program's ultimate goal: to create thriving, vibrant and safe communities with equal opportunities and resources for all residents. 

How you can help

More than ever volunteers are needed to assist local organizations in their work with vulnerable communities. In this ever changing world the challenges are multiple and often unpredictable. Volunteers on this essential program will gain an insight into the issues faced by these communities and will play a part in combating these challenges and empowering individuals to be active in their community.  

Volunteers will be matched with local initiatives based on skill-sets, preferences and the needs existing at the time of placement. The program partners with various organizations running a diverse range of projects and the work undertaken by each volunteer is meaningful and beneficial to the communities served. Placements may be with food banks, homeless shelters, donation warehouses, schools and community centres.  

Volunteer work will vary depending on the projects being undertaken and may include:

• Assisting in food distribution, for example serving meals and packing grocery boxes
• Sorting donations of food, clothing or household goods
• Assisting local homeless shelters
• Working with local groups to clean and beautify communal spaces

Volunteers on this program can expect to work for around 3 - 5 hours per day, 4 or 5 days a week, typically Monday through Friday. When not volunteering participants are free to enjoy this vibrant city! 

Volunteer schedules depend on the needs of the organization at the time of the placement but a typical day is likely to look something like this: 

7:00am Breakfast at the Hostel

8:15am Travel to the project site

8:45am Pre-start meeting with the program coordinator

9:00am VOLUNTEERING DUTIES START

Lunch is taken at midday at an eatery near to the project site

2:00pm VOLUNTEERING DUTIES END

Exact finishing times will depend on the specific project.

2:15pm De-brief with the project coordinator

Afternoons and evenings are free time to enjoy the delights of New Orleans. 

New Orleans (locally referred to as NOLA) awakens the senses!  

Food, festivals, façades and fabulousness come alive in this city and the friendly locals are just waiting to showcase their city to visitors. The famous celebrations, cuisine and colourful architecture are not just frivolous fun but steeped in the traditions and fabric of the city's history.

Step into the story and see what it means to be a NOLA local.