I was privileged to be in New Orleans last April and again this February. A group from the Congregational United Church of Christ goes to New Orleans at least 3 times a month. We all pay our own way and stay at the Good Shepard Church in Medeirie. There are approximately 20 volunteers at one time. Last April when we went, all of us came back with a sense of disbelief as to how this devastation could still be. There were trash piles all along the streets, cars piled under the bridges, no birds, dogs, cats, and most disheartening, no people. There are improvements being made in many neighborhoods, but there is a long way to go. This time we helped do demolish a house that had not been entered since the flood. There is no excuse for that. 

It is a great feeling to know that in some small way we are helping our fellow Americans. It's too bad that the media is not publicizing the plight of New Orleans more. Most people I talk to seem to think that very little needs to be done. Unless you have been there and seen it for yourself you can't imagine what it is like. The people of New Orleans are so grateful when they see volunteers arriving to help. Everywhere you go people thank you just for being there. You receive much more than you give.