Itinerary

April 1st – April 4th (4 days, 3 nights with extensions possible).

Package includes: hotel accommodation, welcome reception & buffet, guided tour of Mercy Corps projects & Katrina-impacted neighborhoods, opportunity to participate in a hands-on recovery project, debriefing reception, logo t-shirt, and a cash contribution to Mercy Corps’ New Orleans recovery efforts.  There is also ample free time available on the itinerary for personal interests and exploration of the many exciting cultural attractions of New Orleans and the surrounding area.

Main group activities begin on April 1st with an evening rendezvous at the Omni Royal Orleans, followed by a welcome reception and buffet.  Specific instructions and additional itinerary details will be included in the final tour packet provided to each group member prior to departure.  More information about optional hands-on activities and sign-up sheets will also be forwarded.

Sunday, April 1

Arrive New Orleans:

We recommend that everyone arrange their own transportation to the Omni Royal Orleans in support of local taxi drivers and transportation companies.

Check in: Omni Royal Orleans Hotel

The Omni Royal Orleans offers graceful elegance in a New Orleans French Quarter hotel.  Located on the most fashionable corner, St. Louis at Royal, the hotel has received the four-diamond luxury award for the past 27 years and has earned the Pinnacle Award for meeting services. Whether you’re visiting New Orleans for work or play, you’re in excellent company – the Omni Royal Orleans is truly the place to see and be seen.

Evening:

6:00pm – 7:00pm          Welcome Reception at Omni Royal Orleans

7:00pm-8:30pm             Dinner at Omni Royal Orleans

Monday, April 2

8:30am – 5:30pm                Mercy Corps Tour

Mercy Corps staff will take us on a visit of locations throughout the City to meet real heroes-individuals who have risen to the challenge and are helping their communities build back better. You will learn how resilient New Orleanians have found their "silver lining" and are taking it upon themselves to rebuild sustainably.  (Lunch is included)

Evening:

Enjoy the sights, sounds and flavors of New Orleans with a night on the town. 

Tuesday, April 3

8:30am – 4:30pm                Volunteer Opportunities

Today, you'll have an opportunity to lend your heart and your hands in neighborhood revitalization projects*:

Project 1: Eco Park Resource Center Refurbishment

Project 2: Broadmoor Neighborhood Community Outreach and Beautification

Project 3: Deconstruction to Salvage Materials

Project 4: Small Business Micro-Mentoring

Project 5: Tree Planting and Neighborhood Beautification in the Lower Ninth Ward

A boxed lunch will be provided to you from a local restaurant located in the area that you will be volunteering in.

After our work, we will have de-briefing at each site  – “Where do we go from here?”

*Registered participants will receive project descriptions and sign up opportunities.

Evening :

6:00pm – 7:00pm                Plenary Session

Meet at the Omni Royal Orleans to share stories and information about the day's projects and experiences over light appetizers. Spend time with public officials and private citizens asking questions and learning more about the city, its plight, and the resilience with which New Orleanians are directing their own recovery.  

7:00pm – 8:30 pm               Closing Reception at Omni Royal Orleans

The rest of the evening is on your own to enjoy the culinary delights of New Orleans; Creole, Cajun, or seafood and one last night on the town.

Wednesday, April 4

Morning:

You are free this morning to continue with volunteer programs, meet with new friends, or explore the city.

Afternoon:

Departures or extended stay options are available

*itinerary is subject to change