Spring Break Service
Spend spring break helping to rebuild a great American city. In
2005, the aftereffects of Hurricane Katrina devastated New
Orleans. When the levees broke the city and surrounding areas
were inundated with an average of five feet of water (and up to
20 feet in parts of the Ninth Ward and St. Bernard Parish). More
than three years later, New Orleans is still recovering and trying
to reclaim and preserve its cultural heritage. Recent hurricanes
have hindered this healing process, but they have also taught
new ways to protect the Gulf Coast. Come discover this unique
part of the country and help locals rebuild their city.
Lend a Hand
You’ll work closely with local organizations to help construct
and renovate homes, beautify the city’s schools and
neighborhoods, and learn what it takes to rebuild the structure
of a major U.S. city. Cultural recovery is also important to the
people of New Orleans, and you will work to help locals regain
a sense of community. Many wonder if a drowned city can ever
be rebuilt. We believe it can and so do the people of New
Orleans. Give a week to support the cause!
Groove to the Blues
Life in New Orleans revolves around two core elements: food
and music. Live songs stream from street corners, restaurants,
coffee shops, impromptu concerts in the park, and festivals at all
hours of the day. Jazz was born in this historic town, but from
rock ‘n’ roll to reggae, the city welcomes all forms of musical
expression. Learn about how and where jazz started, and
become immersed in the musical culture that nurtured greats
such as Louis Armstrong and Harry Connick, Jr. You’ll get to
know the sounds of bluegrass, jazz, Cajun, rock, blues, pop, hiphop,
country, R&B, folk, and reggae that together create the
unique soundtrack that permeates all parts of the Crescent City.
Life in the Big Easy
When you’re not working to rebuild New Orleans, you’ll have a
chance to explore the Big Easy and take in Cajun culture. The
city boasts many ethnic influences, including African, French,
Cajun, Haitian, and Spanish, and the food and traditions reflect
this cultural melting pot. Relax in the French Quarter, listen to
live music in one of the city’s many historic neighborhoods, and
try to spot alligators down in the bayou. Sample flavorful Cajun
favorites such as étouffée and jambalaya, and learn about the
many ways residents celebrate their cultural identity.
Zydeco and Fais Do-Do
New Orleanians have their own language; learn a little before
you leave! Ride the streetcar, try some gumbo, and boil crawfish
(not crayfish!). Learn about zydeco music and dance a little fais
do-do. Meet the Mardi Gras Indians and ride across the
Mississippi in a steamboat. By the time you leave, you’ll have
learned the local lingo and fallen in love with the Big Easy.
If you’re interested in spending spring break relaxing on your
couch, then this program is not for you. But if you want to spend
a rewarding and exciting week rebuilding an important
American city and learning about a new part of the country,
then you’re the perfect fit. You’ll earn 36 community service
hours for full participation in this program.
Questions? Please email us at usa@rusticpathways.com
