Volunteering with Catholic Charities of New Orleans: WCL students Daniel Clark and Jeanna Lee with the staff of Catholic Charities
Most law students spend their two week break between Fall and Spring semesters at home relaxing, searching for internships, and spending time with friends and family. However, through our student organization, Action for Human Rights, several are able to volunteer their off-time to assist those in need of legal services.
From December 29th, 2013 to January 5th, 2014 several WCL law students traveled to New Orleans Our week in New Orleans during the winter break combined volunteering at local legal aid non-profit organizations, rebuilding homes through the St. Bernard's Project, visiting and learning about communities most devastated by Hurricane Katrina, as well as an informative panel discussion with AU Alumni regarding the legal employment climate in New Orleans. Although the bulk of our time was spent either providing pro bono legal assistance or community service, there was ample time to enjoy the unique culture of New Orleans. The po-boys, brass bands, voodoo spells, Spanish-French architecture, flea markets, and the many friendly people we met during our stay made returning school a little less than appealing.
The trip itself not only provided valuable time and service to the host organizations and their beneficiaries, but gave the participating students substantive experience in the legal field, lasting professional contacts, new friends, and fun memories! The trip was a success and we already look forward to continuing this tradition of service in the vibrant community of New Orleans for years to come!
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