Environmental Volunteering in the USA

New Orleans

Environmental Conservation New Orleans

This critical US volunteer program, based in vibrant New Orleans, works on a range of environmental projects to repair the ill-effects of climate change and promote sustainable practices in daily life. Our future depends on volunteers committed to making difference.

It is well recognized that past activities have adversely impacted on our climate, in particular rising sea levels, increased average temperatures and extreme weather events. The USA faces these challenges along with the rest of the world and it is increasingly obvious that actions must be taken to respond and adapt to these changes. 

This program provides local organizations with a much needed volunteer workforce to assist on projects crucial to the future of our environment. Volunteers benefit from working alongside  like-minded people and gain knowledge and skills in sustainability.

Goals of this Project:

  • Provide support to established sustainability projects  
  • Encourage green spaces and growth in urban areas
  • Promote greater awareness of environmental needs throughout our cities
  • Enable positive exchange between volunteers and communities that cross cultural, religious and socio-economic barriers 

How You Can Help

Environmental sustainability projects not only have an immense impact on the community, but also provide great educational and learning opportunities for the volunteers themselves. Providing a much-needed labor force, volunteers will work directly on both established environmental and sustainability projects and in developing new initiatives. We need volunteers who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty!

This program partners with various environmental organizations and volunteers will be paired with projects that demonstrate the most need and best suit their skill-set and preference.  This ensures that the work undertaken is meaningful and beneficial to both our volunteers and the local communities served.  

Volunteer work varies depending on the projects being undertaken at the time of placement and may include:

  • Maintaining urban gardens and farms
  • Conservation and disaster prevention projects
  • Replanting initiatives 
  • Assisting to beautify and maintain parks and walking trails

Requirements

18yo+

Love Volunteers welcomes all those 18 years and over who wish to give their time and energy to assist with environmental sustainability. This hands-on project is best suited to those who are either pursuing a career in conservation or environmental studies or who simply wish to explore an interest in this field. However, the project is open to all and does not require participants to have specific education, qualifications or experience, as you will be shown everything you need to know by your local project leader. Importantly though, all applicants must first and foremost have a genuine willingness to help, show drive and initiative, and bring a positive 'can-do' attitude. If this sounds like you, we want you on the team!  

Additionally, volunteers applying to join this program will be required to supply to following documentation:

Project Location

USA, New Orleans

New Orleans (locally referred to as NOLA) awakens the senses!  

Food, festivals, façades and fabulousness come alive in this city and the friendly locals are just waiting to showcase their city to visitors. The famous celebrations, cuisine and colourful architecture are not just frivolous fun but steeped in the traditions and fabric of the city's history.

Step into the story and see what it means to be a NOLA local.

Start Dates & Duration

Minimum 1 week

This project is available year-round and programs start every SUNDAY. Volunteers can choose to participate for periods ranging from 1 week to 6 weeks. Longer stays can be arranged directly with the local team, but will be subject to availability and individual visa conditions.

For current available start dates please check the calendar on the right.

Arrival & Orientation

Self-Catering , Airport Pickup Included

Volunteers are met on arrival into New Orleans by our local representative and taken to the hostel to settle in. A welcome dinner for new and current volunteers is a great opportunity to get to know each other!

Monday is Orientation Day, designed to help volunteers feel supported and comfortable in their new environment. The orientation will cover negotiating the public transport system and will include a visit to the project site and brief introduction by the community partner. 

  • Arrival Day: SUNDAY 8AM - 8PM
  • Departure Day: SATURDAY 
  • Arrival Airport: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (code MSY)

Accommodation & Meals

Public Hostel / Self Catered

Short term volunteers in New Orleans are accommodated in a hip downtown hostel.  Conveniently located near Bourbon Street and the French Quarter with easy access to public transport this is an excellent location for soaking up the New Orleans vibe!

Situated in an historic building which has been fully renovated for purpose, the hostel has everything you need for an enjoyable stay.

Rooms are dormitory style, sleeping up to 8, with privacy curtain, bed light, storage locker and charging stations for each guest. The hostel offers free WiFi, spacious and modern kitchen and dining facilities, laundry and ample communal areas for relaxing and meeting other guests.  Linen and towels are provided so volunteers need take only personal items.

Meals are not provided on this program and volunteers are welcome to either purchase groceries and prepare meals in the kitchen, or gather up your new-found friends and hit the vibrant bar and restaurant scene.

Hostel NOLA  Hostel NOLA  Hostel New Orleans

Longer term volunteers (4+ weeks) are accommodated in a Volunteer House in the Lower Ninth Ward. The house is well equipped with kitchen facilities, dorm rooms, communal spaces, hot showers and air-con.  Bedding and towels are provided so volunteers need only bring personal toiletries, shower flip flops and face/hand towels. Volunteers self-cater meals.

Kitchen Rooms Bathroom

Prefer to arrange your own accommodation?  No problem. The program fee is adjusted accordingly to $582 for 1 week and $187 for each subsequent week.

Fees

From USD 629
Program fee:
Different currency?
USD 629

That’s just USD 90 per day* for:

  • Airport pick-up on arrival
  • Orientation & full safety briefing
  • Accommodation (as specified above)
  • Food & Meals (as specified above)
  • 24/7 local support network
  • Project placement & onsite supervision

*In addition to the program fees listed above a Registration Fee is payable to secure your place. The registration fee is USD 299 for those volunteering with Love Volunteers for the first time or USD 149 for any subsequent volunteer placements. The registration fee includes: lifetime LV Alumni Membership, fundraising support & advice, dedicated pre-departure support, certificate of completion (on request), and exclusive access to the LV Trip Planner.

Some things are not included in the program fees listed above, such as flights, visas, vaccinations, travel insurance, additional foods and snacks, spending money, local transport, in-country trips and excursions, return airport transfer (unless mentioned above).

Please note that prices are subject to change without notice. Please ensure you have read the Love Volunteers Terms and Conditions & Refund Policy.