by mary on October 16, 2009
With the wooden screens removed, Roy headed up the team to continue painting all of the rear doors green. Ted, Anna, Elise, Ken, Marjie, Patti, Emily, Laura Anne, Troy and Jill kept their brushes moving to the beats of the rhythmic sanding and sawing of wood for shelves, their own lively chatter and the constant hum of music resonating from every direction.
Problem: each time it rains the playground and teacher’s parking lot flood – causing the kids to vacate the playground and forcing the teachers to leave their classrooms to move their cars. After today, hopefully, not anymore! Ted and Troy cleaned out downspouts and traversed the school’s property clearing nine large sewer drains. With the help of Mykhal and John, they dug out 4-5 feet and years of built up dirt, leaves, bottles, cans and tree roots. No task too large for these big-hearted volunteers. We are all keeping our fingers crossed for the next rainfall.
by mary on October 16, 2009
Entryway. Entrances, thresholds into another world, are important places as they set the tone for what is to come, and with this in mind, Mike Taylor lead his team to begin the arduous process of transforming the entrance, both outside and the grand two-story inside, of the Charles Drew Elementary School in New Orleans. Global Hope volunteers, Mike, Teri, Dickie, Nick, Steve, Joe, Emily, Laura Ann, Roy, Ken, Teddy, Mary and others joined CGR volunteers, Elise, Larry, John, Myckal, Nick, Dylan as well as Frank, Larry & Gary from Georgia to paint the railings, doors, walls, and trim of this beautiful school built around 1905. Initially the school was called Washington School but changed to honor Dr. Charles Drew for his discovery of blood types and his work against racial segregation of blood banks which saved many lives in WWII. (One of the wonderful things about service work and giving from the heart is you learn these little tidbits about the people and communities you serve.)
We had over 20 people “working from the heart”, repairing and painting exterior stair rails and doors and the interior doors and walls. These wonderful volunteers were from Georgia, Washington, California, Minnesota, Kentucky and the great state of Illinois. As the delightfully hot Nawlin’s sun was beating down on us we began prepping the doors and walls and many began painting the railing leading up to the doors. The colors, chosen by another team, necessitated 2 coats so it took every one of these volunteers the full 4 days to finish the transformation. Each day people worked steadily, without complaint, to finish the entrance. If someone was called away, another would eagerly jump in and it was this sense of cooperation that fueled the effort. Not only was the building changed, so were all of the workers as we got to know each other a little better. Michael Taylor
by mary on October 16, 2009
Sunday, October 11. We are so grateful for Troy and Jill from the Louisiana Recovery School District. Their organization, leadership and willingness to work side-by-side at all times is an inspiration and a driving force in our productivity. We appreciate our ten plus Common Ground Relief (CGR) volunteers who all enthusiastically stream in each day to assist us – this day being no exception. Today’s mission was to continue organizing a “filled-to-the brim” storage room and carry on with the painting of the two-story entry and rear doors to the school’s playground.
We said farewell to our new volunteer friends, Gary, Frank and Larry from Georgia. They are all retired from the military and travel to New Orleans often in search of projects to assist with. Their help with the entryway painting and the removal of old wooden, prison-like screens from seven rear doorways and all their prep work was invaluable. We will miss them.
We are all smiles as we reflect on the enormous progress made as our weary heads hit our pillows last night.
Storage Room
At first glimpse – this room seemed an impossible task. Chaos and disorder everywhere – an accurate reflection of a chaotic Katrina. It was not difficult to understand why this room had been ignored. Over several days, Patti, Nora, Laura Ann, Emily, Lisa, Joe, Marjie and Ken moved and lifted heavy boxes, sorting the contents of each one. With the help of school administration the books to keep were set aside to load on the newly-built custom book shelves. We can thank Global Hope Master Carpenter, John Ernst, for that. John and Dickie planned and recruited CGR volunteers, Kyle and Mychal, to help build them. Joey joined the team for the finishing stage of the process. Kyle and Mychal were grateful for John’s mentoring and John was grateful that they could keep up with his “Chicago-style journeyman’s pace”.
It took several days before the room’s makeover would be complete. We loved witnessing the excitement of teachers who would visit in and out of the days. Especially their excitement to find educational treasures that had been needed or missing. Patti Ernst, project leader, shared that it felt like Christmas! This room was transformed from an overloaded, disorganized storage room to a functional resource center for holding educational materials and hosting small groups and tutoring.
by lauraann on October 11, 2009
Lisa and her son, Joey
A Volunteer and a Mom – This is my second service trip to New Orleans with Global Hope. What makes this particular trip unique is that I came here not only as a volunteer but also as a mom. It has been very rewarding to see my son working and interacting with others, and to be exposed to people from different parts of the country with different perspectives and experiences. Many of the volunteers on this trip move from their hearts, trusting but not always knowing, what the outcome will be. Lisa Sparagna, Global Hope
Ken & Marjie - a great team both in life and on the "green playground doors"
Rookies - As this is our first service trip, we had no idea what to expect. When we arrived at the school, we felt there was no way we could even make a dent. We put our heads down and forged ahead in the spirit of giving. By day two, the chaos had turned to order, the grim determination on our faces had turned to smiles and singing. AND miracles started to happen! A storeroom filled to the rafters became a teacher’s book room, a beat up entrance to a school became an inviting, welcoming passage for the kids who need hope and encouragement. Hope, there’s that word again, and Global Hope delivers again. Ken and Marjie Kremer, Global Hope
Mychal (far right) and Kyle emerge as talented carpenters under the direction of our Master Carpenter, John
Selflessness - I arrived in New Orleans as a volunteer about 13 months ago. The reason I came was because I couldn’t fathom that it was taking so long for the area to recover. The reason that I stayed is that I couldn’t fathom how slowly, and how long, it was taking for the area to recover. This, quite frankly, is the most meaningful work that I’ve ever done. I have made a lot of money in the past, but it felt so pointles. In just one weekend I come here, to this school, and know that the work I am doing will change someone’s life and restore hope. Volunteering really makes me feel good - does that sound selfish? Mychal Reitman, Common Ground Relief
Steve on the entryway painting crew - never misses an opportunity to smile or help!
People – New experiences, new people helping in a new place. While there are many different types of work to do, each of us are using our individual talents where we are able but all the while working as a team. It has been so rewarding to meet other people that care for others by volunteering their time and talent. Steve Ericson
Nick in a rare moment off the ladder
Solidarity - Global Hope’s project is one of many that the long-term volunteers of Common Ground have assisted with. It is so refreshing to work with a group that has the same perspective – not just to volunteer once but to return on a regular basis. I feel that’s the only way for someone to actually SEE the people of New Orleans and experience a sense of responsibility as opposed to it just being a volunteer opportunity. It has been really great to work on the school because education is at the basis for helping to make an impact in our world. It might seem like we are just painting a wall but for the kids it’s much bigger than that. I like to refer to this quote: “If you have come here to help me, you are wasting your time. But if you have come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then we can work together.” Nick Karel, Common Ground Relief
Anna & Teddy - our two ace cutters - of both freehand paint lines and jokes!
Coming Together – This has been quite the trip of “unity” — a fabulous collaboration on the part of so many organizations. Schools Count helped us to identify Drew Elementary as the school in which to focus our efforts, Global Hope volunteers back home who held book drives and collected donations for us to bring down, Troy Peloquin and Jillian Amrich of the New Orleans Recovery School District, Common Ground Relief who sent over a crew of talented volunteers and Mr. Marc Merriman, principal of Drew Elementary.
Without the help of each of these organizations we couldn’t have accomplished so much – it was truly a collaborative process. I only wish that I could be here on Tuesday morning when the kids arrive. Anna Albrecht
by lauraann on October 10, 2009
Did you hear Global Hope on the radio this morning? If not, don’t worry, we’ll post the interview on the website for all to enjoy. We were contacted by WGN radio in Chicago to give an on-air update of our trip. Lou “Mr. Fix-It” Manfredini has also been involved in service work here in New Orleans and reached out to Global Hope – we are so appreciative. It was a significant opportunity to spread the awareness of what we are accomplishing, both here in New Orleans and back home.
Word traveled fast amongst the volunteers that we were going to be on the radio! It is so rewarding to be recognized for the work that we are doing – not for the merit but for our chance to share with the world the message of hope and service. Mary did an excellent job of imparting the collective voice in her delivery. Global Hope can be a vehicle for all to find a place to give. There are so many needs and EVERY person has something to share – be it time, occupation, compassion, love, friendship, resources or support.
To date each service effort has been unique, however what makes this trip different is that we do not have the direct contact with those that we are helping. I have noticed, for myself personally, that I am lacking that specific connection, that on previous occasions was so powerful. This morning I looked around the room at everyone, gathered on sofas, sitting on the floor, hovering over the computer as Mary & Lou found words for what we are doing. The interview brought everyone together in a new way – our hearts joined as we silently cheered her on and enjoyed the pride that comes with the validity of our efforts.
We are back at the school now, and all of our volunteers have returned for another day of painting, cleaning, organizing, building and giving. A storm last night brought a cool front delivering a welcome reprieve from the sweltering heat and the prospect of accomplishing even more than we did yesterday! Laura Ann Roedel
by lauraann on October 10, 2009
This is my second service trip to New Orleans with Global Hope – a completely different experience from the first one. The intention of the trip is much more specific; to help lighten the burden that the administration and staff at the Charles Drew Elementary School has been carrying for so long. Today we took great strides in accomplishing that goal.
The team that has assembled is diverse and dynamic. Troy Peloquin, Recovery School District Volunteer Coordinator, brings much experience in dealing with volunteer groups which is a tremendous asset to our efforts here. In his time with the District, Troy has gathered many resources and has infrastructure in place that helps us to be more effective. The addition of ten volunteers from Common Ground was a welcome surprise. These volunteers, hailing from Seattle to Rhode Island, are energetic and resourceful. We are ahead of schedule with the completion of our projects due to the willingness of these people to jump right in and help us get things done.
The energy that is coursing through this group is so heartfelt and powerful. The thought of the kiddos walking in to school on Tuesday morning, smiles lighting up their faces, inspires us when the heat is overwhelming and our bones are tired. To know the impact that we can have on the lives of so many is the greatest reward that I can imagine.
We head out early tomorrow morning, rain or shine, Global Hope style – truly making a difference by putting “Goodwill in Motion”. Laura Ann Roedel
by lauraann on October 9, 2009
Today was our first day at Drew Elementary in New Orleans. At first glance it seemed to fit right into the traditional historic buildings seen throughout the city. Our 17 Global Hope volunteers were joined by 8 long-term Common Ground Relief volunteers and 3 volunteers from Georgia. Immediately three different groups set to work inside and outside of the school. A carpentry team began hanging new bulletin boards. A group began painting the outside entrance stairway despite the blistering heat that would surround us all day. Another group was sent to the third floor to begin organizing a room that appears to have become a dumping ground for much of the school.
It was truly heartbreaking to see a storage room of brand new instruments abandoned due to the fact that school had to cut their music program from their budget. There were also a surplus of school supplies, some brand new, many of which came from other schools that were forced to shut down due to Katrina. At first the job seemed a bit overwhelming, but after hours of organizing and sorting it was obvious we had made significant progress.
We took a lunch break and realized all we had already accomplished. In just a morning’s work we had painted the outside stairwell, installed 12 bulletin boards, as well as clean out nearly half of the 3rd floor room. It’s clear we still have lots of work ahead of us, but so far we are off to a great start! Emily Spencer
by mary on September 24, 2009
Come One, Come All
Our 4th New Orleans Service Trip
When: October 8-13, 2009 (Columbus Day Weekend)
Where: Ninth Ward to help renovate Drew Elementary and Douglass High School.
Why: These schools and families have limited resources and were among the hardest hit during Katrina.
What We Hope to Accomplish:
- Purchase and install bulletin boards outside of every classroom
- Reorganize and install shelving in the bookroom.
- Organize teacher’s closets in classrooms
- Paint the main entrance and several offices
- Assist with landscaping, cleanup work and other outdoor projects
What We Need:
- School supply discounts
- Paint
- Children’s books, athletic equipment (balls, bats, mitts, etc.)
- Misc. supplies (ask us)
- Travel vouchers for airfare and/or rental cars. (There are several skilled volunteers willing to come down but need a little help defraying costs.)
- Donations
Our crew leaders will be Michael Taylor and Ken Kremer. Global Hope will organize the work projects, tools and supplies and materials. Volunteers are responsible for their own travel expenses.
Discover the fun and revel in the satisfaction of volunteering for this exciting service trip. To sign up, please contact us.
by mary on September 24, 2009
In honor of Reverend and Julia Adams, Global Hope donated $4,000 to Schools Count, a Hinsdale-based charity organization whose sole purpose is to provide supplies to schools in need throughout the country. Dick Flesher and his amazing volunteers purchased and delivered uniforms and beginning of the year school supplies for over 500 children at Drew Elementary School in New Orleans during August 2009 in time for the start of the school year.
The principal of Drew, one of many schools ravaged by Katrina, tells us that the parents are both grateful and thrilled to have their children’s uniforms and supplies paid for this year. We thank Schools Count and its volunteers for the passion, dedication and hard work it takes to bring these projects to fruition.
Schools Count is a Hinsdale-based charity organization whose sole purpose is to provide supplies to schools in need throughout the country. This passionate organization is run by retired Hinsdale Central teacher, Dick Flesher. For the past four years his efforts have provided for schools in numerous cities throughout the United States – particularly those hit by natural disasters in places like Iowa, New Orleans, Texas and Mississippi. Mr. Flesher volunteers nationally as an advocate for a fair educational system.
by mary on September 24, 2009
Sometimes our service work takes a turn for the “even better” and if we are not careful we can miss it. Reverend Adam’s Holy Ground Baptist Church in the Lower Ninth Ward is one such story.
Over the past eighteen months, Global Hope has placed much emphasis on plans to help rebuild the Holy Ground Baptist Church in the Lower Ninth Ward. As many of you may recall, Reverend Adams withstood the pain of not only watching his church be significantly damaged by Hurricane Katrina but also by becoming the victim of a miscommunication of the City of New Orleans, resulting in the total demolition of his beloved church. Though our compassion for Reverend Adams and his loss still runs deeply through our hearts here at Global Hope, we’ve found it necessary to change direction. Due to the housing market decline, the construction companies have had to withdraw their support and coupled with Reverend Adams failing health and his inability to participate in such a project, we have respectfully shifted our efforts to where we feel we can best be of service.
It must be said that we are different people after having spent time with the Reverend and his wife. Knowing them has renewed our faith in that brilliant flame burning within all of us. Despite adversity, Reverend Adams continues to walk the streets surrounding his congregation looking over his “flock”. He has shown us that it isn’t about the walls – it’s about the spirit. It is our intention that his example remind us of the unwavering sense of community that keeps us listening, keeps us caring – and holds the desire to serve firmly in our hearts.
Global Hope heartfully thanks each and every one of you who joined us in this cause. We have appreciated the multitude of ways in which you have joined us in our efforts to be a service organization that truly puts “Goodwill into Motion”.
In the light of our continuing desire to support education, and to uphold our commitment to the Ninth Ward, we intend to transfer donations initially directed to the rebuilding of Holy Ground Baptist Church to the Charles Drew Elementary School and Douglass High School in the Ninth Ward. These schools serve the families of those hit hardest by Katrina – losing homes, belongings, and in too many cases, family members as well. The funding to help these schools and families falls desperately short of ever hoping to meet the rising needs of both school and community.
We are excited about this new focus and proceed in honor of Reverend and Mrs. Adams, who share in our commitment to support education and the families of the Ninth Ward.
