Response by the American people to the devastation caused by the hurricanes in the Gulf Coast region has been unprecedented. In particular, our nation’s colleges and universities responded by offering displaced students and faculty a place on their campuses, often waiving fees and requirements. Student organizations held fundraisers and assembled books, supplies, clothing, and other necessities and, in some cases, delivered them personally to people who were suffering. In areas housing Katrina evacuees, college students volunteered in shelters, schools, and community centers. Now students are helping the Gulf Coast recovery by organizing teams to aid in the long-term process of rebuilding.

On November 1, 2005, U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Alphonso Jackson and Corporation for National and Community Service CEO David Eisner, launched the Universities Rebuilding America Partnership (URAP) at Louisiana State University. The new program will offer resources and support to engage college and university students, faculty and staff in helping rebuild the Gulf Coast region.

Learn more about the Universities Rebuilding America Partnership