August 14, 2007
When I woke up that July morning, I knew I was about to embark on something much bigger than myself. I wasn’t quite sure how to accomplish the task but knew I wanted to make a difference. After a trip to New Orleans in June with a group from my hometown, I was incredibly struck by the spirit of optimism that remains with residents who have lost so much. Their stories tell of total destruction of all of their worldly possessions, but end in a note of thanksgiving for their lives and the people who have come to help. These helpers–volunteers from all over the country–deserve to be recognized for what they do.
We hear so many horror stories of death, corruption, and government inefficiency. These are all unfortunate, but real, consequences of Hurricane Katrina. But there are good things happening, too! Volunteer groups and residents are cleaning and rebuilding houses every day. And these volunteers aren’t just coming down once. They return, multiple times, working through harsh conditions to raise walls and create homes for those without true shelter. One volunteer told me recently, “There is just something about New Orleans that captivates the heart. I just can’t help but return.” Why do they come back? What do they give to New Orleans, and what does New Orleans give to them? Who are these people? Where are their homes, and why are they inspired to give up their time to help strangers? These are just a few of the questions I will attempt to answer over the next year as I begin this journey with Project: Katrina Hope.
On that July morning, I just knew I had to make a documentary. I knew it had to be about inspiring hope. And I knew that others would rise to the occasion. I have been amazed by the response so far. People are so willing to provide me with valuable information about how to put the project into motion. My friend and web guru, Patrick Lafferty, has volunteered his time and skills to build the website, the first major step in raising awareness about the goals of Project: Katrina Hope. Our next step is fundraising through multiple avenues. Starting with my inner circle of friends and family, I am slowly working to alert people to our mission and pick up helpers for my cause. I’ll be talking at churches, service organizations, school clubs…and standing in the streets on my soapbox, if that’s what it takes. I have never felt so strongly about or invested so much in a project, and I am incredibly excited and confident about the progress we can make over the next several years.
With hope,
Gretchen
Posted on August 14th, 2007 by Gretchen Wieland
Filed under: From Gretchen
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