The Community Involvement Organization (CIO), founded in 2023, is on a mission to raise awareness and find solutions to the ongoing needs and challenges faced by the historically underserved and overburdened residents of New Orleans, particularly those in the Lower 9th Ward — 92% of whom are Black and 35% live below the federal poverty line. Still recovering from Hurricane Katrina’s devastation in 2005, the Lower 9th faces significant economic and development challenges, including food insecurity, lack of economic growth and development, pervasive blight and vacant lots, and a flood risk higher than that of 99% of counties across the country. Fighting for social, economic, and environmental justice, CIO works on a variety of issues, including elder care, affordable housing, community development, education, healthcare, and voter engagement. Through these efforts, CIO is playing a crucial role in the continued recovery and improvement of the Lower 9th Ward, committed to the area’s long-term revitalization and resilience.
At right, Community Involvement Organization leader Richard Bell welcomes Urban League C.E.O. Marc Morial to Sankofa Wetland Park, a long-term recovery project that aims to improve protection from hurricanes and flooding in the Lower Ninth Ward. Photo: Source: Richard Bell Sr.’s Facebook page
Deeply rooted in the community, CIO is a small, all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to making a big difference in the lives of its neighbors. Founded by Reverend Richard Bell Sr., a Lower 9th Ward resident for over 45 years, and life-long civil rights activist and organizer, the group understands the power of partnership to effect authentic change. They work closely with other New Orleans groups such as A Community Voice and Southern United Neighborhoods to empower low-income and working-class people to engage in regional-scale climate resilience planning and fight for their rights. As well, they collaborate with Culture Aid NOLA’s weekly food giveaway for underserved residents, and support public health efforts with the Louisiana Department of Health and the National Veterans Wheelchair Games. Whether advocating for housing and infrastructure improvements, fostering community development, or holding public officials accountable, CIO never loses sight of its mission: revitalize the community and enhance the quality of life for its most treasured and vulnerable residents.
CIO founder Rev. Richard Bell partners with the Louisiana Department of Health at community fairs across New Orleans to bring resources and information, particularly to those unable to readily access them. Source: contributed by Rev. Richard Bell