New Orleans is a city that truly stands out in America. From its crazy and colorful party-life, its proud professional football team, and its hazardous and dangerous rainstorms, New Orleans is prominently embedded in most American’s minds. Where New Orleans really set itself apart from other nation-wide popular cities is in its relief efforts post Hurricane Katrina. And from these efforts sprang a new generation of entrepreneurs. One such entrepreneur, LaToya Cantrell, created the Broadmoor Improvement Association, which restores homes that are in danger of demolition. Broadmoor is a racially mixed, middle-class historic district in New Orleans dating back to the 1920s. When Katrina hit, homes in Broadmoor found themselves submerged in over seven feet of water and were threatened with demolition. When neighbors worked together with researchers to form a comprehensive development plan to save their homes, this inspired Cantrell, also a Broadmoor inhabitant, to create a company that does the same for everyone in a vulnerable position such as hers and her neighbors. Today, more than 70% of the homes effected by Katrina have been restored, thanks to the Broadmoor Improvement Association. The group successfully lobbied for better police presence and emergency services, reopened their local school as a charter, and built a new playground. Their unmistakable signs “Broadmoor Lives!” that are posted throughout the city, only foster exceptional cohesion within the New Orleans community. To top it off, Cantrell has spoken around our nation about the inexplicable power of communities in times of need. It’s no secret that Hurricane Katrina left her unforgettable mark on New Orleans. However, the inhabitants can now restore their faith in where it should have been before the catastrophe hit: themselves. No one knows the power of a community more than these brave folks, and thanks to Cantrell and her group, everyone now has a place that they can call their own. Have YOU helped save the world today?For more information, visit: www.fastcompany.com,broadmoorimprovement.comWant to become a Social Firestarter? “Like” us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @ BrushfireMG
