LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth |
Am I in America? |
by Claire Ippoliti |
A Journal Entry: Thoughts on Post-Katrina Outreach Efforts The Lower 9th Ward, Louisiana looks as though time has stood still. And while the water here has receded, nothing else has changed. Not far away, the French Quarter looks as if it had never been touched by Hurricane Katrina or the flood waters, and yet, even though separated by mere miles, these two sections of the city are worlds apart.
As I stand in the Lower 9th 18 months after the hurricane looking around, I find myself asking, "Am I still in America?" The devastation lingers and is immense. I work for a credit union. Credit Unions are financial co-operatives and have the specific mission of serving their members; People Helping People. Although the Lower 9th does not have a credit union, the philosophy of People Helping People is alive and well due to an organization called Emergency Communities (EC). I recently took some time off to volunteer at EC's Goin' Home Community Center Cafe' for a week. EC provides some basics to a community in desperate need, things like 3meals a day, laundry, telephone and internet access, home gutting and grass cutting all free to local residents and volunteers still suffering from the effects of Hurricane Katrina. What touched me the most during my week stint was meeting the residents. Amidst the devastation, you could find Harold everyday at the center either writing poetry or offering help with some of the chores. If you happen to be in the center while Ralph is stopping by for a meal, you will be entertained by him singing beautiful love songs. Second most impactful was the display of dedication and commitment from the volunteers. I do not know how they do it. Imagine all the personnel issues we all face each day in our respective offices. Now imagine that you live together 24 hours a day, work 14-16 hours most days, are short staffed and have to train new staff on a continual basis. Oh, by the way, the pay is zero, zilch, nothing. Add to this the fact that your work environment is less than ideal (located in a high crime area, dormitory sleeping arrangements, outdoor shower). It brings new meaning to the phrase People Helping People. When I left the site, I cried for the residents who discovered that the physical tragedy of the storm paled in comparison to the continuous victimization by many. Criedbecause I was moved by the dedication of those involved with EC, because I was able to walk away and leave it behindor could I? For further information on the continued efforts of this organization, visit EC at www.emergencycommunities.org. Claire Ippoliti is the VP of Lending at the Philadelphia Federal Credit Union. She serves on the Executive Board of the CUNA Lending Council and is a Credit Union Development Educator (CUDE). She can be reached at cippoliti@pfcu.com or 215-934-4040. |
LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth, Vol. 17, No. 7 June 15, 2007 |