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Release Date: June 12, 2008
For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
Contact: Brendan Lacivita (202) 572-8878
New Orleans, LA. – General Doug O’Dell, federal coordinator for Gulf Coast Rebuilding, last night spoke at a graduation ceremony for students from Reconcile New Orleans’ Youth Workforce Development Program. The program was developed in 2000 to meet the needs of at-risk youth who had experienced various socio-economic challenges.
“I am honored to be here today to recognize the achievements you have made in completing this rigorous academic program,” said O’Dell. “Because of your courage and hard work you now are better prepared to face life’s challenges and succeed.”
Reconcile New Orleans was founded in 1996 by the late Rev. Harry Thompson, S.J., who, along with other concerned people of faith, joined together to find constructive solutions for out-of-school youth in New Orleans. In the eight years of operation the Youth Workforce Development Program successfully graduated over 400 young men and women between the ages of 16 and 22 - providing them with the necessary skills and support services to enact positive changes in their lives. Many of them will begin working at Café Reconcile, the on-site restaurant for Reconcile New Orleans.
“We are honored to have General O’Dell share time with our students, staff, and families tonight,” stated Donna Bowie, director of programs. “This offers hope and encouragement to our graduates and the city of New Orleans that our youth are not forgotten. We look forward to their support and interest as we continue our mission in reconciling New Orleans one graduation at a time.”
The foundation of Reconcile’s approach is individualized relationship-building with each of the program’s participants, including greeting them as they arrive each day, celebrating their successes, and offering instruction and encouragement in their areas of challenge - all of which is vital in creating a welcoming, nurturing environment. Through on-site training, interaction with active professionals, lectures in safety and methodology, and positive encouragement students are prepared to transition into paid jobs and further education and growth.
The Office of the Federal Coordinator for Gulf Coast Rebuilding has been engaged in facilitating and streamlining the recovery effort, providing key federal support and resources to state and local leaders, as well as reinforcing the federal government’s commitment to the people of the Gulf Coast.
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This page was last reviewed/modified on June 12, 2008.