Today we left Springfield bright and early, and arrived in New Orleans.  New Orleans is unlike any city I have ever seen.  It is unique and breathtaking.  It also makes it easy to see how such a beautiful city became a victim to floods, during hurricanes especially. There is water everywhere after a day of rain.

Background

My name is Marissa, and I have a more personal reason for joining this particular Bear Breaks trip.  I was supposed to be in New Orleans with my family during the week Hurricane Katrina hit. However, they decided not to fly out the day before the hurricane was supposed to hit.

I just think about what would have happened if I had been there, and what happened to this beloved city.  I would like to be apart of helping the city take one more step forward and help rebuild for communities in this area.

Next Step

I am excited for our first day of volunteering tomorrow and getting a chance to get to know and help the community.  I am glad to get the opportunity to see and help the city I was meant to see many years ago. It will be an eventful week with new friends and serving alongside them.

-Marissa Owen