Regional Initiatives

OVERVIEW

It is clear that for our region’s recovery to be complete and equitable, the rebuilding process in the parishes (a.k.a. counties) surrounding New Orleans should be spearheaded by leaders who live and work in those communities. That’s why the Foundation launched and funded new community-based affiliates in St. Bernard, Plaquemines, and Jefferson parishes.

Through these three affiliates, people who have been involved in the civic life of these communities are now identifying and addressing the greatest needs of their respective parishes. In the process, they are also helping to chart the future of philanthropy in surrounding communities.

The Foundation’s regional outreach program supports our affiliates as they work to focus their grantmaking efforts and leverage their assets in partnership with private and national sources.

OUR WORK

Coastal 5+1
Our program addressing the most pressing challenges shared by our region’s five coastal parishes — St. Bernard, Plaquemines, lower Jefferson, Terrebonne and Lafourche — and the coastal-dependent Orleans Parish. Read More >>

Metropolitan Opportunities
An initiative of the Ford Foundation, this program enables us to help grantees build capacity and strengthen communities throughout the greater New Orleans region.  Specifically the goals of this initiative are to connect people to opportunities for safe, affordable housing, efficient and effective transit, and to promote economic and workforce development in a holistic regional way. Read More >>

Jefferson Community Foundation
Established in 2008, the Jefferson Community Foundation has focused its initial efforts and resources on housing and quality of life issues.

Plaquemines Community Foundation
Established in 2006, the Plaquemines Community Foundation has awarded grants to bolster the commercial fishing industry and support education programs and agricultural initiatives.

St. Bernard Community Foundation
Established in 2006, the St. Bernard Community Foundation has awarded grants focused on several block-building, enhancement, and leadership development projects in targeted neighborhoods.