Leaders of the Rex Organization and the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club welcomed students and school leaders from two New Orleans public charter schools to the Rex den where they received giant checks signed by Rex and Zulu. While each organization has reached out to provide community support in various ways this is the first time Rex and Zulu have joined hands to directly support New Orleans public schools.
Leaders and students from Edgar P. Harney Spirit of Excellence Academy (located across South Claiborne from the Rex Den) and Phillis Wheatley Community School (located a few blocks from Zulu’s clubhouse) were honored for their work and presented with checks for $5000.
Zulu and Rex leaders were confident this would become an annual event, and in coming years plan to invite other Mardi Gras krewes to join in supporting our schools. Next year’s presentation will be held at the Zulu clubhouse on North Broad Street.
“Strong education is a cornerstone of a healthy city,” said Rex official Christian Brown, a sentiment echoed by Zulu President Naaman Stewart.
The collaboration between Rex and Zulu is separate from the work of Rex’s Pro Bono Publico Foundation. The Foundation has raised and invested over $6million over the past ten years to support the renewal of New Orleans’ public school system.