New Orleans Festival of Learning

Every Saturday on a street corner in New Orleans, children gather to enjoy books and artistic projects. This “Street Library” allows children, parents, and neighbors to come together and learn from each other in an informal setting. The format is simple: colorful blankets on the ground, a communal time of reading and stories, followed by an activity promoting discovery, highlighting skills, and encouraging creative expression. All children are invited, while a special eye is kept for those with the most difficulties.

Summer Street Festival of Learning, an extended Street Library, is an opportunity for neighbors, community volunteers, young adults, teenagers, children, craftsmen, local artists, storytellers, and many others to gather and celebrate each other and their talents! The festival will run between July 18th and August 6th 2011 and be broken into three-day-long sessions of painting, crafts, sports, poetry writing, music, and much more. There will be activities for children of all ages, teens, and adults. Through the Festival, community members will have an opportunity to share the wealth of knowledge hidden behind the negative stereotypes of under-resourced neighborhoods.

A youth leadership training session will begin weeks before the event to give teens and young adults the shared responsibility of scouting talent, coordinating events, and of course, sharing their own knowledge. This group of young leaders will gain valuable experience in working with their communities and among each other to create the change they want to see. They will also train other young adults in community organizing and leadership; and develop programs that foster community.

We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to have a place in his community. We believe every child should have the chance to learn from the adults around her. By donating to the Summer Street Festival of Learning, you can help bring the joy, growth, and fun of true community to the children of the Seventh Ward neighborhood.

Donation amounts listed are examples. If you would like your donation to be used for a specific purpose, please click on "Add a designation" and tell us about it.