New Orleans Native Burnell Cotlon, A Beacon Of Hope In The Lower 9th Ward

Location and Background:

• Heroes Among Us event presented by Navy Federal Credit Union in New Orleans, Louisiana.
• New Orleans, known for its great food, music, and nightlife.
• Site of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 causing $160 billion in damage.
• Nearly 2,000 residents lost their lives, many left homeless.
• Bernell Cotlon, born and raised in the lower 9th ward, evacuated during the disaster.

Life Altering Events:

• Bernell served in the Army before returning to New Orleans in 2001.
• Hurricane Katrina led to Bernell leaving his job as a police officer to manage a local McDonald's.
• Lived in a FEMA trailer for 3 years before deciding to rebuild.
• Corporate America deemed the area a 'food desert' and was hesitant to invest.
• Bernell's determination led to the opening of Lower Ninth Ward Market.

Challenges and Resilience:

• After Katrina, the closest grocery store was three bus rides away.
• Bernell faced obstacles from the city and corporations in rebuilding.
• Lower Ninth Ward Market became a refuge for nearby residents.
• Bernell's story attracted attention from notable figures like Mark Zuckerberg.
• Bernell used his life savings to open the only grocery store in the Lower 9th Ward.

Legacy and Impact:

• Bernell's work reflects caring, resilience, and hope for the community.
• He emphasizes finding purpose in life and serving the community.
• The grocery store stands as a symbol of hope and service.
• Bernell's actions have inspired others to help and support his cause.
• He is recognized as an everyday hero who met the needs of his neighbors.

Philosophy and Service:

• Bernell believes everyone has a purpose in life beyond the mundane.
• His transition from serving in the military to serving the community was natural.
• He emphasizes the importance of service and finding one's purpose.
• Bernell's dedication to his community and the grocery store is unwavering.
• His story exemplifies the impact one individual can have on a community.