Katrina Corps

My First Time to New Orleans

I know it sounds cliché, but the smells and sounds are what I remember most. There is so much about New Orleans that, from a glance, I did not like: the drinking, the partying, the smoking, the strip bars. But somehow things that mattered more to me showed themselves: Jazz clubs, Art, Tattoos, Southern drawls, Humid sticky, sweatiness, Kind folk, Volunteers, Genuine Hearts, Southern cuisine, Music, and more music. A Groove that was contagious.

I wanted so badly to paint my heart out—paint every school that needed painting. But, I have learned from my battle with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome that balance is key. So, I worked with Ray, Spencer, Marshall & Terry to make it happen my own way (with breaks, and one day off to rest). Ray set the schedule for the day. Spencer kept me company with his cute pup Casey. Marshall and Terry worked the field with me, and all were true caretakers. We also worked with RSD (Recovering School District). Troy, a 6’5” native Orleanian was RSD’s lead. His enthusiasm was infectious. There was also another guy from Americorps, Chris. He was working 40-hour weeks, with minimal pay. By the end, I helped manage 450 volunteers from Tulane University—wow that was a hefty ride. Katrina Corps was always front and center, happy to help me find my way. I appreciated their hospitality.

After visiting Ernie K. Doe’s and Preservation Hall Jazz band, I spent the rest of my free time in the 9th ward. I was and still am shocked. It is amazing to me how much neglect I saw, how fragile human life is to nature and how action, rather than lip-service, is the only way to unite and repair. Everywhere I turned in New Orleans, I felt warmth and welcome. I hope to return soon for volunteer experience II.

Thank you kindly and sincerely,

Quinn