When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in 2005, images of the devastation flashed across every television screen in the United States. Those haunting images inspired thousands of people to volunteer, rebuilding homes, handing out hot meals or assisting with rescued pets.
Though it’s been nine years since the storm roared ashore, a host of non-profits are still hard at work rebuilding. Homes are still being rebuilt and the focus has expanded to include coastal restoration too. Other projects are available, too, like building playgrounds or beautifying blighted neighborhoods.
The top organizations to work with include:
Common Ground Relief: Projects include building new homes in low-income areas and wetlands restoration efforts.
Habitat for Humanity: Assist with various stages of the home-building process, from framing to painting.
Rebuilding Together New Orleans: Focuses on making existing homes safer and more accessible for the elderly and disabled.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana: Help package and deliver or serve meals to low-income citizens.
St. Bernard Project: Focusing on hard-hit St. Bernard Parish, this non-profit builds homes for those affected by the hurricane.
Youth Rebuilding New Orleans: Groups and individuals can help rebuild blighted, foreclosed and flood-damaged homes.
Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program: Get your hands dirty with projects like planting marsh grass and cleaning up the coast.
For more opportunities, visit the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau website.
Read This Next
6 Environmental Organizations For Voluntourism
Trends / Voluntourism
Aug 26, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Mar 28, 20257 Architectural Marvels to Spot on Your San Francisco Trip
San Francisco, California, is the place to visit for architecture-loving travelers. Explore these must-see landmarks on your next trip.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Airlines
Mar 28, 2025Discover Airlines Launches Only Direct Flight Between Orlando and Munich, Germany
The only direct route between Orlando (MCO) and Munich, Germany (MUC), officially launched this month via Discover Airlines. The airline began service March 5 to Germany’s popular city, offering three weekly flights year-round.
Destinations / Europe
Mar 27, 2025What to Expect from WOW Cultural District in Porto
Not so much of a naturally evolving district as it is a specifically designed destination, WOW Cultural District in Porto launched in 2020. A Portugal Project of National Interest, it’s a mostly wine-focused district located across the Douro River from Porto’s Old Town.
Sponsored Content
AmaWaterways’ Specialty River Cruises
When you embark on a river cruise with award-winning AmaWaterways, unpack once and step aboard a world of unparalleled experiences. With enriching excursions, exquisite locally sourced food and wine, nightly entertainment and more included in the fare, you will learn why AmaWaterways has the most returning guests out of any river cruise line.
Hotel
Mar 27, 20256 Eco-Friendly Resorts Honoring Earth Day Every Day
While Earth Day is a day to celebrate our planet, it’s important to respect and honor Earth every day. That’s just what these six resorts do, putting sustainability first year-round.
ShareThis