village to raise
It takes a
a child
A thriving New Orleans starts with our youth
We all have a responsibility to our city’s children. Together, we can shape New Orleans’ future by supporting New Orleans’ next generation.
THE STORY
New Orleans' future lies within our youth
It’s time for The Village to step up
New Orleans decided that even after tragedy, we were worth redemption. We knew that our vulnerability did not make us disposable–it meant that we needed additional protection. Twenty years after Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans’ children are worthy of the same grace, healing, and investment to carry the city into the future.
By signing this pledge, I commit to support New Orleans youth. I pledge to use my role(s) in The Village to protect our youth and serve as an advocate for their grace, healing and investment, while encouraging others in our community to do the same.
I recognize New Orleans youth as the future of our city.
I see our kids as kids–capable of growth, learning from mistakes, and overcoming systemic challenges.
I will use my voice, position, and resources to support the grace, healing, and investment of New Orleans youth.
I will support calls to action that protect young people and address the systemic issues that they face.
Together, we can redefine New Orleans’ future.
OUR COMMUNITY PLEDGE
Join us
OUR MESSAGE
A New Narrative for the Next Generation
1.
Position youth as our community’s future
Black youth are not a problem to be solved; they are the future we must invest in. The next 20 years of New Orleans depend on the well-being and success of its children today.
Youth crime is a byproduct of failed systems and lack of investment, opportunity, and alternatives. We need solutions that heal, not deepen the harm. That begins with recognizing the kids in our community as our kids who are worthy of support and capable of growth.
2.
Transition from criminalization to care
Change isn’t just about policies; it’s about all of us—families, educators, business leaders, and policymakers—owning our role in shaping the future. "It takes a village to raise a child."
3.
Take responsibility for wellbeing as a community
WHY JOIN THE MOVEMENT?
New Orleans youth deserve more
Too often, young people in New Orleans are met with criminalization instead of care and reactive responses, rather than proactive support. But real change happens when we provide the stability, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. By surrounding our youth with a community that believes in them, we can break cycles of hardship and create a future where every child has the chance to succeed.
Grace
Every child deserves to be seen for who they are, not just the mistakes they make. Offering grace means recognizing their potential and helping them navigate challenges with support and the opportunity to grow as human beings.
Healing
Systemic barriers and personal hardships take a toll on young people. True healing happens when we address the root causes of their struggles—ensuring access to safe spaces, mental health support, and a caring community.
Investment
Change doesn’t happen without action. Investing in our youth means funding programs, advocating for better policies, and creating pathways that lead to stability, success, and hope for the future.
THE VILLAGE AT WORK
At 16, Calvin was caught in the juvenile system—not for wrongdoing, but because his family was homeless. Without stable housing or transportation, school and court felt out of reach. Then Lana, his LCCR social worker, stepped in—finding them shelter, securing permanent housing, and enrolling him in a nearby school. With stability, Calvin’s attendance improved, and his case was closed, giving him the freedom to be a kid again. This is the power of a village. When we step up, change happens.
How the village transformed Calvin’s future
Our partners
JOIN THE VILLAGE
Our community pledge
By signing this community pledge, I am affirming my commitment and societal responsibility to New Orleans youth. I pledge to use my role(s) in The Village to protect our youth and serve as an advocate for their grace, healing and investment, while encouraging others in our community to do the same.
I recognize New Orleans youth as the future of our city.
I see our kids as kids–capable of growth, learning from mistakes, and overcoming systemic challenges.
I will use my voice, position, and resources to support the grace, healing, and investment of New Orleans youth.
I will support calls to action that protect young people and address the systemic issues that they face.
