Programs and Projects
Article Archive
The Porch is a cultural center located in the 7th Ward.We lead workshops with elementary and middle school youth in developing projects that will shed light on what they find special about New Orleans, and more specifically their neighborhood. In addition we focused our dialogue and projects on creating space for youth to express their ideas and desires for the future of their community.
7th Ward Speaks (oral history) project
In partnership with the neighborhood story project, “Seventh Ward Speaks” encourages neighbors to share the stories of their lives with each other. Every interview is turned into a poster which is displayed in the neighborhood. The live histories will eventually be turned into a book. (Program Managers: Rachel Breunlin & Helen Regis)
7th Ward Heroes project
During February, this art project honors important residents of the Seventh Ward, and the larger New Orleans community, through black and white prints designed by artists Willie Birch and Ron Bechet. The prints are put around the neighborhood to showcase the talent of our community. (Program Managers: Ron Bechet & Willie Birch)
Little 7 Players Youth Theater Repertory
The Porch, in partnership with Jan Cohen Cruz and HOME New Orleans developed a youth theather repertory in the Spring of 2006. The Little Seven Players continues to work with young people to write and perform plays about New Orleans. During the fall of 2007, they will work with Tulane University’s Dance Department and creates site specific piece for the community. (Program Managers: Ed Buckner and Stephanie McKee)
Community Garden
Located on N. Robertson between St. Bernard and Annette Street. Our Parkway Partners’ community garden provides a safe okace fir people of all ages to grow their own food and find a moment of respite in the middle of the city. On Thursday afternoons, art classes are held in the garden for the neighborhood children. (Program Managers: Dan Ethridge)
Run / Walk & Exercise class
The Porch runs regular exercise classes for seniors as well as others interested in gerring in shape. We Also host an annual Run / Walk to promote health and well being in the 7th Ward. (Program Manager: Hubert Dixon)
Seventh Ward Festival
In conjunction with the Original Big 7 Social and Pleasure Club’s annual second line parade, the Porch hosts a day long festival showcasing musicans from around the 7th Ward, Mardi Gras Indians, poets and other performers. Food, drinks, and kids activities (including storytellers and face painters) are available. (Program Managers: Ed Buckner & Helen Regis)
Seventh Ward Arts Alive Summer Camp
In partnership with KidsmART, the Porch runs summer arts camp for young people in our community. In 2007 they recorded their own raps, took photographs, and created a site specific sculpture now on display in the backyard of the cultural center. (Program Managers: Ron Bechet & Willie Birch)
Design / Build with University of Kansas
The Porch’s Earliest supporters, Rob Corser, Nils Gore, and their students at the University of Kansas have built a shade structure and tool shed in the garden, a portable stage, an outdoor classroom space, and furniture at the cultural center since we began a partnership in January of 2006. (Program Managers: Rachel Breunlin & Dan Ethridge)
Film Nights at the Porch
In partnership with the new Orleans film society, the Porch hosts monthly film screenings and discussions Featureed Films have included Spike Lee’s “Do The Right Thing”, Sembene Ousmane’s Ceddo, and Rebecca Snedeker’s “By Invitation Only". Phillip Noyce’s Rabbit Proof Fence, and Lisa Katzman’s Tootie’s Last Suit. (Program Managers: Willie Birch & Helen Regis)