Letter from Global Hope

Dear Malik, Thom, Mavis, Marina, Sharon and all the Folks at Common Ground Lower 9th,

Thank you all for the most wonderful experience! Partnering with Common Ground this past week has been so fulfilling. Our volunteer team was touched and inspired by what they encountered during this 5-day whirlwind. Each volunteer said they received more than they gave. The connection with the residents was particularly meaningful.

We are so proud of what we created together for the Cager family, Linda Jackson and her family, and Common Ground and its volunteers!

Thom, your absolute brilliance in organizing and integrating us with the local needs allowed us to be so successful. Your responsiveness and attention to detail allowed this to flow like a perfectly choreographed ballet (although at times it might not have appeared that way) >From the beginning, your responsiveness, clarity and project management skills have been impeccable and that caused us to be so impactful. Also, your sense of humor and tirelessness is contagious.

Mavis your welcoming spirit, shining light and generous hospitality set the tone for our trip. The light of your beautiful smile illuminated the dreary weather and carried us throughout. Also, all the work you did filming and documenting will be so valuable as we generate more resources for the future.

Marina, although you were not here, your wisdom and guidance over the last 8 months was a godsend. You kept us informed, motivated, connected and on track.

Malik, you are a visionary with a great 'systems approach" to the effort to rebuild New Orleans and at the same time so hands-on. Your accessibility and warmth is inspiring. Also, we appreciated your focus on leaving the past behind and looking forward to the future. You have a big heart and an indomitable spirit!

It's hard to say whether our group worked harder or played harder. What we do know is that the spirit of New Orleans is forever a part of us all. Once we rest a bit and get our lives back on track, we will begin our planning for April.

In the spirit of gratitude and unity,

Global Hope

Anna Albrecht,
Naureen Loftus
Mary Lothrop
Laura Ann Roedel