"Rebuilding Dreams in New Orleans" Campaign to Celebrate Success May 30 Domino Effect

Two years ago, Operation Kids teamed up with Drew&Brittany Brees and their Brees Dream Foundation to launch "Operation Kids: Rebuilding Dreams in New Orleans" to rebuild and restore academic programs, child care facilities, parks and playgrounds, athletic programs and mentoring opportunities for the children of New Orleans. In those two years, the campaign has raised funding for:

• Childcare. The rebuilding of the Royal Castle Child Development Center, a Class A child care facility in a hard-hit area of New Orleans that serves up to 100 kids.
• Science&Math. A new outdoor activity area and classroom, after-school elective classes, and summer science internships for 25 students at New Orleans Charter Science and Math High School
• Athletics. A new multi-sport athletic field and weight room for student-athletes at Lusher Charter School.
• Enrichment. A multi-school study by New Orleans Outreach, the University of Michigan and Tulane University of the effect of school enrichment programs and community involvement on student performance.
• Playgrounds. Rebuilding of the Mirabeau Gardens playground in the Gentilly neighborhood by Beacon of Hope Resource Center.

Ashe Kindergarteners

• Construction of the Edible Schoolyard New Orleans - an innovative educational concept where students participate in gardening classes and cooking lessons that reinforce classroom coursework on core subject - at Green Charter School and Arthur Ashe Charter Middle School.
• Community Field. New football fields and a community center at Pontchartrain Park.
• Best Buddies. Creation of Best Buddies chapters in New Orleans high schools through recruitment and leadership training.
• Tutoring and Mentoring. After-school academic, tutoring, arts and mentoring programs through New Orleans Outreach.

On Saturday, May 30, the Drew Brees Foundation will host a start-studded tribute concert celebrating the life and influence of rock and roll legend Fats Domino and to raise awareness and funds for the final portion of the "Operation Kids: Rebuilding Dreams in New Orleans." Performers include Chuck Berry, B.B. King and Little Richard. A portion of the proceeds from this event will benefit the ongoing campaign.

For more information, photos and updates on this campaign, please click here. For more information on the Domino Effect concert, or to purchase tickets, click here. Can't make the concert? Make a donation. 100% of your donation will go to benefit the children of New Orleans through the "Operation Kids: Rebuilding Dreams in New Orleans" campaign.