RESEARCH BIBLIOGRAPHY

In the year following the devastating destruction wrought by hurricanes Katrina and Rita, researchers, policymakers, and planners have been working to measure and understand the impact of the storms on the city of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast region. Through commissioned papers, independent research, and program reports, a vast array of information has been gathered on the extent and depth of damage in the region and the impact of the disruption on neighborhoods and people. In some cases, studies have offered strategies that might guide the recovery and rebuilding efforts. As a result of this work, a large body of information is available that can help inform nonprofit and community leaders as they formulate an action plan for addressing community needs and rebuilding the nonprofit infrastructure of the region.

This web site provides a collection of readings on issues important to the rebuilding of New Orleans and the region and the role of nonprofits in dealing with those issues. The collection focuses on six issue areas linked to the aftermath of hurricanes Katrina and Rita: (1) housing; (2) children and families; (3) arts and culture; (4) disaster preparedness; (5) community health; and (6) poverty reduction and asset development. In many cases, the studies draw on the lessons learned from other disasters or demonstration projects aimed at revitalizing a city or strengthening the social and economic fabric of communities.

Each category of readings is divided into two sections: essential reading and further reading. In some cases, subcategories are used to guide the reader through this extensive literature. The lists were finalized October 15, 2006, and most entries have direct links to a brief abstract or the full article. The links were operational as of October 30, 2006.

Special thanks are due to the Tulane/Xavier Center for Bioenvironmental Research for compiling the readings on Community and Environmental Health, as well as to the many researchers and project advisors in New Orleans who reviewed earlier drafts of this research bibliography.