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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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