|
NEW ORLEANS, LA - On Monday, May 11, 2026, the Criminal Justice Committee convened to hear three presentations from different organizations in the Greater New Orleans area. This included presentations from the New Orleans Recreation Development Committee (NORDC), Heroes of New Orleans, and the Mayor’s Office of Workforce Development (MOWD).
NORDC Summer Programming Presentation
Representatives from the NORDC spoke before the committee to provide an in-depth overview of the organization’s summer programming. This summer programming includes recreational, educational, and enrichment opportunities available to youth across New Orleans.
To meet its seasonal hiring goals, NORDC aims to hire 100 lifeguards and 31 summer camp staff members to support its summer operations. As of May 11, 2026, representatives provided updated figures. NORDC received 82 lifeguard applications, with 80 applicants on track to be hired for the program. NORDC also received 36 applicants for the summer camp counselor program, with 32 on track to be hired.
The lifeguard hiring process includes a swim test, background check, drug screening, completion of a certification course, and completion of an application packet. Lifeguard I positions start at $17.58 per hour, and applicants must be at least 15 years old.
The presentation highlighted stipend-based youth workforce programs. The Junior Lifeguards Teen Career Camp for ages 13–15 lets participants earn up to $450 while learning lifeguarding skills at NORD natatoriums during a six-week program from June 1 to July 10. The Summer Sports Challenge offers teens ages 13–17 the opportunity to earn up to $450 through evening recreational activities like flag football, volleyball, basketball, e-sports, and podcasting.
NORDC also noted strong demand for summer camps, with youth camps reaching capacity within one month of registration opening in March. Teen career camps also neared full enrollment by early May.
Additionally, NORD promoted a variety of free summer recreational offerings, including swimming lessons, open-play basketball and volleyball, youth sports leagues, and family game nights. NORDC noted that open and family swim times are available at all outdoor pools, including access to two brand-new splash pads.
To view the full presentation, click here.
Heroes of New Orleans Presentation
Greg Ravy, director of Heroes of New Orleans, spoke before the committee to provide an overview of the organization’s mission, programming, and community impact.
Heroes of New Orleans is a community organization founded in 2016 by Algiers native Gregory Ravy to support underserved youth and families across New Orleans through mentorship, education, workforce development, and wellness programs. The organization’s mission is to create pathways to success and self-sufficiency by providing resources, opportunities, and strong community support, with a vision of helping youth and families thrive and contribute to the city’s future.
The presentation highlights the organization’s “whole-child” approach to youth development, focusing on career readiness, entrepreneurship, health education, STEM, creative arts, leadership, and wellness. Key programs include: Youth Workforce Development Program, Heroes 360 Club, Wise Guys Mentoring Program, Making Proud Choices, and Summer Entrepreneur Program.
Through these programs and community engagement efforts, Heroes of New Orleans serves as a trusted organization committed to empowering youth, supporting families, and fostering long-term success opportunities in New Orleans.
To view the full presentation, click here.
Mayor Summer Youth Employment Program Overview
Representatives from the Mayor's Office of Workforce Development spoke before the committee to provide an overview of youth workforce development initiatives and summer employment opportunities. Specifically, the Mayor's Summer Youth Employment Program (MYSEP).
MSYEP provides paid summer jobs to Orleans Parish youth aged 16–24 via local businesses, nonprofits, and city agencies. It offers hands-on experience, professional growth, workplace skills, and career exposure while encouraging civic engagement and economic opportunities. Additionally, applicants were required to reside in Orleans Parish. The program offers three employment tracks:
- Traditional Track (6 weeks): Open to youth ages 16–24, paying $15/hour while providing workplace experience and job-readiness training.
- Intern NOLA (8 weeks): For college students ages 18–24 with at least 30 credit hours completed. Participants earn $16.27/hour in internships aligned with their academic majors and must complete a resume, an interview, and a drug test.
- Work & Learn: Designed for youth ages 16–18, paying $15/hour while offering pre-college support through UNO and SUNO Upward Bound programs.
Following the presentation, representatives assured the committee that the program was set up to ensure that every student enrolled would be paid on time.
|