2023: a year in review

Serving the

community

since 2006

2023 Year in Review

Dr. Murelle, G. Harrison, Ph.D

Message from our Executive Director

As we reflect on the past year, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and pride for all that we have accomplished together. Throughout the year, we have made significant strides [Murelle’s Angel Award, hiring of 43 youths during the summer, increased parent involvement]. These accomplishments would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of our staff, volunteers, donors, and partners. Your unwavering support has been the driving force behind our success, and for that, I am incredibly grateful.

As we look ahead to the future, I am filled with optimism and excitement for what lies ahead. Together, we have laid a strong foundation upon which we can continue to build and grow. With your continued support, I am confident that we will overcome any obstacles that come our way and continue to make a lasting impact in our community.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you for your dedication, passion, and commitment to our cause. Your generosity and support have been instrumental in our journey, and I am honored to have you by our side as we work towards a brighter future for all.

Murelle

Gardere is a Safe and Healthy community for all its residents.

Our vision

Gardere Initiative is a safe place that nurtures personal and educational

growth for children

and their families.

Our History

Founding and early initiatives

In response to the 7 homicides in Hurricane Katrina's aftermath, Attorney Rica Kwentua from Faith Chapel and Pastor Reginald Pitcher of Greater Sixty-Aid Baptist Church united to mend the Gardere community. They launched two pivotal annual events, the Back to School Extravaganza and the Love Fest, fostering community and support, transforming the tensions into collaborative growth.

2006

expansion of programs

The Afterschool Program kicked off in 2013, starting simply with volunteers gathering under the trees around the unit. Building on this initial success, the program expanded into a Summer Program the following year in 2014.

2014

TODAY

Regular community events like the Gardere Takes Flight! Celebration have been hosted to engage and uplift the community. Regular services including education programs, health and well-being initiatives, financial help, and community cleanups continue to be a staple of the Gardere Initiative’s offerings.

2024

2013

partnerships

After retiring from Southern University,

Dr. Murelle Harrison became the Executive Director and partnered with Ms. Karen Lee, President of the South Burbank Crime Prevention District. Together with Captain Andrew Stevens and the EBRSO’s Community Police Unit, they launched a plan to make Gardere a safer and healthier community.

2018

new park

Significant investments were made in local infrastructure, including the installation of a playground in 2015 and a $350,000 renovation of the Hartley/Vey Park in 2018