lowernine.org is a nonprofit volunteer organization rebuilding homes in the Lower Ninth Ward of New Orleans that were destroyed by the flooding that resulted from Hurricane Katrina in August 2005.
We have on-going volunteer opportunities for those who are willing to work hard and are looking to make a difference. We provide all necessary project training, tools and safety equipment and we don't expect you to arrive in New Orleans with any previous construction experience. We simply ask all volunteers to be both willing and physically able to learn new rebuild skills.
The large majority of our work is focused on rebuilding homes flooded after Hurricane Katrina. Our projects range widely, but include the following: repairing roofs, framing walls, assisting licensed electricians and plumbers, installing windows and doors, hanging drywall, mudding and sanding drywall, installing kitchen cabinets and countertops, laying tile, interior painting, replacing damaged siding, exterior scrapping and painting and yard work.
In order to participate in rebuild projects, volunteers should commit to a minimum of three full days of work. We are usually able to arrange community support projects for those who can only commit a day or two. We will arrange half-day or weekend projects for large groups whenever possible.
We are non-political and non-religious and welcome volunteers of all ages and walks of life. Individuals and small groups are invited to stay in our volunteer house. Groups larger than 12 will need to arrange their own housing and we can provide some contact information for local options as needed. Groups with members under the age of 18 will need one legal adult chaperone (over the age of 23) for each five minors. Volunteers under the age of 15 can only participate on rebuild projects alongside their families and not as members of larger groups.
Responsibilities include:
- completing daily work on residential construction worksites
- Filling in roles assigned by the project manager and crew leaders
- communicating with on site crew leaders about the progression of work and any needed materials
REQUIREMENTS