Ok, here goes my first Camp Restore blog.
There is a lot going on in NOLA at this time of the year. I know many of you were happy to see the holiday season end, but it feels never ending here. Spring time in NOLA means Festival Season. Each weekend you can find a festival in the New Orleans area celebrating something: crawfish, creole tomatoes, oysters, gumbo, French Quarter Fest and the big one, Jazzfest.
Since our college days, my husband and I have attended the Fest to fill our soul with music, food, art and the joyfulness of the crowd. I remember when it was a much smaller event that allowed poor college students to bring in their own food and listen to music of local artists. The crowds are bigger now and we can afford to buy the food but the spirit of the fest remains the same. People from all over the world come to join the celebration of Louisiana culture. Nothing seems to dampen their spirit, not the heat, humidity, rain, or the lines at the port-a-potties.
It’s the same at Camp Restore. People have come from all over the world to restore our community. The volunteers continue to be joyful in their work regardless of any challenges. They work hard, but still take the time to learn and enjoy our culture. Like the Jazzfest, it’s a place where the energy created by the volunteers is contagious. Each week I am energized by the volunteers’ faith and passion for our city. Whether it’s working to restore a home or seeking out the perfect po-boy shop, our volunteers approach each with great enthusiasm. It’s a wonderful place.
I hope I get to meet you at Camp Restore one day. Think about it!!!
Kathy