Focus Areas

Volunteer Leaders will lead a variety of service projects and see many facets of the recovery process; as well as gain valuable insight into volunteer mobilization, leadership, non-profit partnerships, the devastation of Katrina, and the culture of New Orleans. While we encourage all of our Volunteer Leaders to be flexible on a daily basis, Focus Areas will guide the work that Volunteer Leaders do at Hands On New Orleans.  It will determine the types of projects they concentrate on, as well as the research and projects they develop during their stay. 

Construction
Volunteer Leaders with a construction focus will lead crews of short-term and local volunteers on construction projects throughout the city.  While we encourage applicants with construction skills to apply, we likewise consider this an opportunity for those with less experience to grow their skills.  Through their service, Volunteer Leaders will learn about the rebuilding process in New Orleans, the challenges facing residents as they rebuild, and develop their construction and leadership skills.

Education
The Volunteer Leaders with an education focus will be responsible for developing programs and projects that engage youth in direct service and service-learning. Additionally, these leaders will be needed to inform, research, and support any new projects that are being developed by our Youth Engagement Coordinator.  Volunteer Leaders will learn first hand about the affects of Katrina on the school system and children in the city through interaction with teachers and students on a daily basis. 

Disaster Recovery
Volunteer Leaders with a disaster recovery focus will lead teams of short-term and local volunteers on a variety of projects that include:, cleaning parks, painting murals, clearing lots, working with homeowners, creating environmental initiatives, and so much more. Those who choose this focus will work to form more beneficial partnerships in the community. This is the most diverse of the three focus areas.