Canisius College Campus Ministry Alumni Service and
Immersion Program in New Orleans
May 18-24, 2009

Canisius College Campus Ministry will team-up with Catholic Charities Operation Helping Hands and the Jesuits of the New Orleans Province of the Society of Jesus.  The program is open to Canisius College alumni and their families. 

Why New Orleans, why now?  New Orleans has become a forgotten place.  While much progress has been made and vast improvement seen in the quality of life, there is still much to be done.

You can download a photo essay of past trips here.

Program Details

• This alumni community service and immersion program is based on four cornerstones: service, simple living, reflection and prayer, and community.

• We will assist rebuilding homes with Catholic Charities Operation Helping Hands (Habitat for Humanity type work. No experience is required).   We will also prepare and serve a meal to the homeless at The Harry Thompson Rebuild Center in downtown New Orleans. 

• The program includes several cultural and educational experiences.  We will attend Sunday Mass at St. Augustine Roman Catholic Church; the oldest African-American church in the country.

• Cost: All participants are responsible for their own transportation to New Orleans plus $100.  Lodging and most meals are included.

The following community partner websites provide additional information about our program.  Catholic Charities Operation Helping Hands website currently has a very brief video that tells the story very effectively.
Operation Helping Hands
Jesuits of New Orleans Province
Habitat for Humanity Musician's Village

For more information contact Joe Van Volkenburg, Assistant to the Director of Campus Ministry, at 716) 888-2875 vanvolkj@canisius.edu.