Community Outreach Programs

NENA conducts outreach to connect to and organize Lower 9th Ward residents, encourage community participation, and provide information on rebuilding opportunities. The focus of this work is its budding network of Neighborhood Volunteer Block Captains. In partnering with the Holy Cross Neighborhood Association, Block Captains monitor the needs of residents and assist with securing resources.

NENA also reaches residents through monthly Community Nights Out, which are regular information sessions that provide a mechanism for residents to voice their needs and concerns. NENA conducts outreach through public service announcements on Clear Channel Radio, direct mail, and word of mouth.

The highlight of its outreach work thus far occurred in spring 2006, when NENA led a memorial event in which more than 200 Lower 9th Ward residents walked to the homes of each storm victim and to the section of the MR-GO levee that was breached.

NENA has received support for this program from the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee, among others.

NENA is recruiting Volunteer Block Captains for the Lower 9th Ward. Those Lower 9th Ward residents interested in helping to bring back the Lower 9th Ward should contact Nilima Mwendo, Community Liaison.