Phoenix of New Orleans facts for kids

The Phoenix of New Orleans (PNOLA) is a special group that helps people. It is a non-profit organization, which means it doesn't work to make money. Instead, it uses its funds to help others. PNOLA specifically helps people in New Orleans who were affected by Hurricane Katrina.

This organization was started by Paul Ikemire in November 2005. He was a medical student at Tulane University at the time. Since then, PNOLA has become one of the most important groups helping to rebuild the city. They have helped more than 300 families get back on their feet. Big organizations like the United Way and AmeriCorps support PNOLA's work.

How it Started

On August 29, 2005, a very strong storm called Hurricane Katrina hit the coast of Louisiana and Mississippi. It was a Category 3 hurricane, meaning it had very powerful winds. Many cities and towns in the area were badly damaged. Some places had minor damage, while others were completely destroyed. PNOLA was created to help people recover from this huge disaster.