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Karen Gadbois and Laureen Lentz

The size and scope of Hurricane Katrina sent New Orleans residents across the country, and many still want to return. But without a house, it's not an easy task.

With Squandered Heritage, Karen Gadbois, Laureen Lentz, and Sarah Elise Lewis banded together to track lists upon lists of demolitions for the community—sometimes being the first to tell homeowners that their homes were on the chopping block. They've spend countless hours at citywide meetings, scanning through documents, photographing homes, and helping their neighbors rescue the unique heritage of the Crescent City.

In the midst of all their work, the trio still had time to share what inspires them and what they love about New Orleans.

What made you decide to start Squandered Heritage?

Karen: To capture our city as it was Post Katrina. Then tell the story of demolitions and the impact of loss.

Laureen: I met Karen at a small soirée last August. Architecture has been a lifelong passion since my teenage years in Chicago, and one reason I love New Orleans. Our streetscapes provide an enchanting background for the mundane routine of daily life and work. I was beginning to become concerned about the impact of the demolitions on our historic districts, and was already taking photos of hand demolitions done before Karen and I met. So the partnership was a perfect match. Read the full profile...

To assist New Orleanians in navigating the murky waters of post-Katrina assistance and insurance claims, Gelfand and other law scholars, students, and attorneys formed this coalition for legal aid and disaster relief. The group offers legal and benefits assistance, and its site answers questions that range from "How can I secure Social Security benefits?" to "What can I do to get my child enrolled in school?" The organization has also pledged to keep a close eye on federal, state, and private funds so that relief quickly -- and equitably -- finds its intended recipients, "wherever they may be." Tragically, Gelfand died in the past week. He leaves behind a group of lawyers who may not make FEMA any more user-friendly, but they offer a much-needed guide to the help that's out there.