At Living NOLA & Beyond, we believe that where you live is more than just the address—it’s about the people, stories, and voices that shape a neighborhood. Community engagement isn’t just a buzzword in New Orleans—it’s a lifestyle. And in 2025, several local efforts are proving just how powerful connection and collaboration can be.
Whether you’re a current resident or thinking about moving to one of our incredible neighborhoods, here are a few initiatives you should know about that are truly making a difference.
🏙️ Neighborhood Engagement Office (NEO)
The Neighborhood Engagement Office (NEO) serves as a bridge between city government and New Orleans residents. It offers a platform for neighbors to speak up, get informed, and take action in their communities.
💡 What they offer:
- Community Office Hours: Residents can meet directly with city departments to voice concerns or get help.
- Neighborhood Leaders Roundtables: A monthly space for community leaders to collaborate and exchange ideas.
- NOLA Ready Programs: Offering emergency preparedness workshops and disaster response resources.
Why it matters: These programs create transparency and trust—something many cities struggle to build. It empowers everyday people to take part in shaping the places they call home.
📍 Learn more at nola.gov/neighborhood-engagement-office
📖 The Neighborhood Story Project (NSP)
Founded in 2004, the Neighborhood Story Project works with youth and residents to write, publish, and share the stories of New Orleans neighborhoods. Their motto: “Our stories told by us.”
🖋️ Their work includes:
- Publishing books and essays written by local students and community members
- Hosting storytelling workshops and oral history projects
- Documenting Black and Indigenous histories, especially in underrepresented areas
Why it matters: NSP amplifies real voices from within the neighborhoods—preserving culture, building pride, and connecting generations through storytelling.
📚 Explore stories at neighborhoodstoryproject.org
🌍 Why This Matters for Homebuyers and Sellers
When choosing a home, buyers often ask about school ratings, safety, or property value—but community engagement should be part of the conversation too.
- Are residents involved in shaping their neighborhood?
- Do neighbors support each other and local schools?
- Is the city listening to the voices of the people?
In places like Gentilly, Treme, and Algiers, these answers are increasingly “yes”—thanks to initiatives like NEO and NSP. This kind of energy makes all the difference in long-term satisfaction and pride of place.
🧭 Final Thoughts from Tae Smith
At the end of the day, a home is more than four walls—it’s part of a larger story. One written by the people who live, work, raise kids, care for elders, and show up for one another.
If you’re looking for a place that values connection and community, I’m here to help you find it.
📲 Let’s Find a Neighborhood That Feels Like Home
Contact Tae Smith, Your Lifestyle Realtor, today.
Because community isn’t just where we live—it’s how we live.