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September 07.2025
2 Minutes Read

Deep Fried Awards $20K Grant: Rebuilding Together New Orleans Gets Digital Boost

Volunteers at Rebuilding Together New Orleans grant event.

A Celebration of Community Resilience and Digital Growth

In an inspiring move that intertwines creativity with community service, Deep Fried Advertising awarded a significant $20,000 website grant to Rebuilding Together New Orleans (RTNO). This gesture marks a dual celebration: the 20th anniversary of Deep Fried and nearly four decades of RTNO’s dedication to fostering safe and secure homes for low-income families in New Orleans. It's a partnership rooted in the belief that a powerful online presence can greatly enhance an organization’s mission.

The Importance of a Strong Digital Presence

The Deep Fried Advertising team meticulously reviewed 23 applicants to identify RTNO as the ideal recipient of their inaugural $20k web grant. Factors like RTNO’s existing impact, clarity of their mission, and potential for growth played pivotal roles in this decision. As RTNO prepares to launch its new Resiliency Center—commemorating the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina—this redesigned website will elevate the organization’s ability to reach out, tell its story, and inspire further support from the community.

Bridging Gaps for Better Impact

RTNO’s mission is not just about home repairs; it’s about rebuilding hope and fostering resilience within communities. Their existing digital footprint was lagging, which limited their outreach potential. With the new website, RTNO aims to connect with more donors and volunteers, ultimately expanding their impact on those most in need.

A Spotlight on Community Nonprofits

RTNO’s selection for this grant highlights an essential truth—local nonprofits are the backbone of community support systems; they transform lives one home at a time. By improving the digital tools at their disposal, organizations like RTNO can amplify their work and reach more individuals in need of assistance.

Future Predictions: A Digitally Resilient New Orleans

As New Orleans continues to rebuild from past challenges, the fusion of technology and nonprofit work will significantly play a role in future resilience. Better digital engagement will not only enable organizations to tell their narrative but will also foster connections that spur community involvement.

“RTNO’s application demonstrated exactly the kind of initiative this grant was designed to support—a deeply rooted organization doing life-changing work,” said Jennie Westerman Diemont, the president and chief creative officer of Deep Fried. This partnership is expected to set a precedent that inspires more businesses to invest in local nonprofits, enhancing community efforts for years to come.

If you enjoyed this story, why not stay connected? Join New Orleans Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive local information.

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02.14.2026

Ideal Appliance Parts Expands Its Horizons: First Out-of-State Location Now Open

Update Ideal Appliance Parts Expands Its Reach In a significant move for the family-owned business, Ideal Appliance Parts has officially opened its first store outside of Louisiana, marking a milestone in its journey as a trusted provider of appliance parts and repair products. The new location in Gulfport, Mississippi, celebrated its Grand Opening on October 23, 2025, bringing together members of the local community to commemorate the occasion. Connecting to the Gulf Coast Community This expansion not only symbolizes growth for Ideal Appliance Parts but also reflects a strategic effort to strengthen ties with Gulf Coast businesses and residents. The new store aims to facilitate access to appliance parts for those who would previously travel to Louisiana or rely on online orders. This change is essential for homeowners and service technicians, as it provides immediate access to essential repair components and technical services. The Importance of Local Service Donna Joseph, the president of Ideal Appliance Parts, expressed her enthusiasm at the opening, stating: "We were thrilled to bring Ideal Appliance Parts to Gulfport. This location allows us to serve the Gulf Coast community more effectively, whether through our retail store, wholesale division, or online orders." Her sentiment underscores a growing trend among companies focusing on enhancing local customer experiences and service accessibility. Impact on Local Economy The establishment of the Gulfport store is also a potential boon for the local economy. By providing employment opportunities and encouraging commerce within the area, Ideal Appliance Parts aligns with the community's needs and economic development efforts. The Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce facilitated the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, further proving the positive reception from local business leaders and the community at large. What’s Next for Ideal Appliance Parts? Ideal Appliance Parts continues to operate seven locations in Louisiana, ensuring that a wide array of products, from washing machine components to oven repairs, are easily accessible to customers throughout the Gulf South. With the opening of the Gulfport location, the company has reinforced its commitment to service while also positioning itself for future growth. The move into Gulfport showcases how regional businesses can build infrastructure that meets their customers' needs, especially in a landscape where convenience and accessibility have become paramount. As Ideal Appliance Parts sets its sights on further expansion, it will be interesting to see how they leverage their success in Gulfport to open more locations in the future. If you enjoyed this story, why not stay connected? Join New Orleans Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive local information.

02.04.2026

Fringe + Co.'s Closet Cleanse Sale: A Sparkling New Chapter for Fashion Lovers

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02.04.2026

Riverside Lofts: A Historic Transformation in Algiers Offers Modern Living Options

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