History of The River Of Hope

Marya Hage, our founder, and Dr. Rebecca Thomley, our Chief Executive Officer, have been involved with disaster work through the Red Cross for many years. They served in New Orleans and Baton Rouge immediately after Hurricane Katrina, to assist with the mental health efforts. As a result of the contacts they made during these trips, and with their leadership, the organization committed itself to help the people of New Orleans. See the story "Bringing a River of Hope".

Through the "River of Hope" project, Orion Associates, Meridian Services and Zenith Services have sent employees and other volunteers on several of trips to New Orleans. The first trip took place over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, in 2005, and other trips have followed. The groups have worked primarily in New Orleans' Ninth Ward and in Saint Bernard's Parish, two of the hardest hit areas of the city.

Preparation for these trips has begun with the volunteers seeking donations of cash and supplies from friends, family and the community. They have also participated in a range of larger fundraising events and have sought press attention. With the supplies collected, the volunteers have filled several semi-trucks full of supplies, including building materials, cleaning supplies and other necessities, which were then shipped to New Orleans.

The primary work on the first trips to New Orleans was gutting homes, involving removing all of the damaged furnishings and possessions from the home. The gutting work continued to include removing the sheetrock, flooring, and insulation of the homes, stripping them down to the studs. On the trip in March, the "River of Hope" volunteers included general contactors, electricians, plumbers and roofers who began the rebuilding efforts.

In addition, the "River of Hope" has established close contact with a number of individuals and families in the community and has provided them with clothing, bedding and other necessary items, including financial support.