(As printed in the Metairie Picayune - Sunday, February 28, 2010)
The Crescent River Pilots’ Foundation became a charter member of the Youth Rescue Initiative, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life in New Orleans by creating structured opportunities and discipline for at-risk youth, and presented a check for $5,000 to YRI President James Bernazzani.
“This really is a perfect fit for the Crescent River Pilot’s Foundation. Both foundations share a goal of positively contributing to the five-parish region that makes up the greater New Orleans area. it is also a great partnership with area schools, communities and the regions law enforcement agencies – all seeking to make a difference in the lives of at-risk youth and improve the quality of life for all citizens of New Orleans.” said Sallie Arnoult, president of Crescent River Pilots’ Foundation.
The Youth Rescue Initiative aims to break the cycle of adolesecent violence that has plagued New Orleans for years by assisting at-risk youth in New Orleans through programs designed to build leadership and confidence, and instill lifelong skills. The programs range in scope from literacy to film production, conflict resolution and ship building. all programs focus on the nonprofit’s mission of facilitating opportunities for the youth of New Orleans, so that they will have a future of empowerment and self-sufficiency.
The YRI was founded in October of 2008 in memory of Joey Georgusis by the Georgusis family and James Bernazzani, the former FBI special agent in charge of the New Orleans Division.
Founded in 2005, the CRPF was started by the Crescent River Port Pilots and their families for contributing to charitable causes in the parishes where they live and serve: Jefferson, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard and St. Tammany parishes.
