High Voltage

HIGH VOLTAGE, INC. IMPACT AND LEADERSHIP

Founded in 2003 in New Orleans, Louisiana, High Voltage is a volunteer-driven organization committed to providing educational and recreational programs for youth, families, and senior citizens. Our mission is to offer intergenerational initiatives that enhance the well-being of both young people and seniors in our community. With a focus on empowering underserved youth, High Voltage delivers programs that foster character development and self-discovery. Participants can also earn community service credits required for high school, college, and medical school.

In response to the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic and multiple devastating Gulf Coast hurricanes, High Voltage, supported by dedicated volunteers and community partners, has expanded its efforts. For years, the organization has distributed "Bags of Hope"—filled with personal hygiene items and school supplies—to children and families experiencing homelessness across New Orleans. After these crises, High Voltage collaborated with Louisiana VOAD to extend disaster relief throughout the state.

Notably, in 2021, we teamed up with the Omaha Storm Chasers, Union Omaha Soccer Club, ABC Supply Company, and Werner Enterprises to deliver over 42,000 pounds of aid to Hurricane Ida survivors. The same year, High Voltage joined forces with Essence, Inc. for the Action for Access Initiative, supporting local seniors. Our volunteers also participated in the virtual Essence Music Festival, and our at-home summer reading program improved literacy for over 100 students in the past two and a half years. As we reflect on challenges from Hurricane Katrina through Hurricane Ida, we remain dedicated to building a stronger New Orleans and Louisiana.

In 2022, we partnered with Winn-Dixie’s Community Bag Program to raise funds for World Central Kitchen and help provide meals for Ukrainian communities. In August 2023, with support from Hands On New Orleans, we distributed 150 Senior Cool Kits to public housing residents to combat the city’s extreme heat.

High Voltage remains active year-round, hosting and participating in MLK Day of Service events to enhance quality of life, support education, preserve local history, and promote diversity in New Orleans. Recent projects include collaborating with Eskew+Dumez+Ripple on a commemorative utility box honoring Donald Richardson, a beloved band director, and redesigning Esperanza Academy’s playground.

Here are a few ways that High Voltage engages our communities:

• Summer Reading program 
• Back-to-School Supply Giveaways 
• Community Outreach Events 
• City-wide volunteer cleanups
• Hurricane Relief 
• Mother's Day Celebration
• Father's Day Celebration
• Bags of Hope for the Homeless (Toiletries) 
• Arts and Crafts Workshops
• Senior Citizen Thanksgiving Meals
• Holiday Toy Giveaways