Common Ground Relief (CGR) was founded on September 5, 2005, by Malik Rahim, Sharon Johnson, and Scott Crow in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Calling themselves “Common Ground Collective”, the group began working in Rahim and Johnson’s neighborhood on the West Bank of New Orleans, while the city remained without power or basic services. Since its founding in 2005, Common Ground Relief has remained committed to working for environmental and disaster justice. Today CGR works in environmental outreach and education, wetlands restoration, and operates a food pantry from our headquarters in the Lower 9th Ward of New Orleans.
Students will assist staff members in carrying out the Free Pantry program by sanitizing spaces, stocking shelves with available items, portioning bulk items into household serving sizes, assist shoppers selecting the items they want, keep areas clean, and store leftover items appropriately. Volunteers will assist staff in carrying out the Native Plant Nursery program by weeding, watering, mulching, potting, and organizing plants as instructed by CGR staff.
Service learners will learn about food insecurity, food Justice, low-barrier pantry operations, client services, native plant identification, local ecology, and plant care.
-
Middle school children (6th-8th)
- High school students (9th-12th)
- Adults
- Senior citizens
- Immigrants/non-English speakers
- People with disabilities
- People who are homeless or in transitional housing situations
- People involved in social justice advocacy or community organizing
- Other staff members at our agency
Orientation
Resume review
Interview
Remote opportunities available: RISE is a hybrid organization with both in-person events throughout the River Parishes (primarily Ascension, St. James, St. John). Depending on your schedule and interests, we can develop either in-person or remote opportunities for you.
Christina Lehew
volunteer@commongroundrelief.org
504.312.1729
Reliable, personal vehicle transportation required for outreach in St. James Parish.