PODs offer housing for the volunteers. Photo: Tary Snyder
Location: 6 1/2 acres on the outskirts of Houma, Louisiana. Houma is a city of about 70,000 people, which was high enough in elevation that it was not directly affected by the 6-10 foot storm surge that resulted from hurricane Rita. Houma volunteers are serving in mostly residential areas found along the five bayous (rivers) just to the south. These bayou areas experienced water up to 10 feet, some of which stayed for up to three weeks.
Number of beds: 90
Needs as of April 2008: Greatest needs are for rebuilding and skilled labor such as roofing, drywall, carpentry, plumbing and electrical work. Less skilled volunteers can be helpful in jobs such as scraping and painting. They can also learn from and work alongside skilled volunteers in jobs such as drywall and roofing.
Volunteer groups are faced with the challenge of taking more responsibility on the worksite. Groups function most effectively when one of their own can work onsite to delegate tasks and manage the daily activities.
Additional information: The Village is in the heart of Cajun country, and volunteers who come learn about the environmental and cultural aspects of the area. They can also get a taste of Cajun cuisine and hospitality. In addition to the time spent on work sites, volunteers help with projects needed to keep the village running smoothly, such as cleaning and organizing.
Many volunteers have helped with the construction of a permanent building on site, the result of collaboration among PDA, the local Elks lodge, and the Presbytery of Giddings-Lovejoy. The building has been completed and opened for use in the village. It provides an indoor kitchen with two gas ovens/stoves, range hoods, air-conditioned gathering space, indoor bathroom facilities and a TV that receives local channels. The hall will also be used for community events sponsored by the Elks.
Ready to Go? Teams interested in serving through any of the Presbyterian Volunteer Villages may register online or may contact Penny Noel and the volunteers at the PDA Call Center, (866) 732-6121.
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