F.A.Q.

Am I responsible for transportation?
CACTUS runs vans to all if our projects, but be sure to check with the your project's coordinator for time and location. Therefore, you do not need to and are encouraged not to use your own transportation.

What kind of commitment is expected of me?
Each project is requires a little different commitment, however, participation in most projects requires a few hours a week.

When are meetings?
CACTUS board meetings are held at the beginning of every month and are open to all volunteers. However, a volunteer is not expected to go to any meeting unless your project coordinator has set one up for your project.

How will the community accept me?
Different people have different opinions about Tulane. It is best just to feel-out each person you meet. Also make sure you are open-minded, respectful and responsible because their opinion of you will directly affect their opinion of Tulane, and CACTUS.

Is the neighborhood I will be visiting safe?
Although there could be safety issues at a site, CACTUS makes every effort to ensure your safety. None of CACTUS's projects have experienced any major issues yet. Going during the day in a group, and by following directions, you should have no problems with safety. Hopefully, after going a few times, you will also realize that it is not as scary as you may have thought, and should feel quite comfortable there.

Can you buy gifts for project participants?
Although a nice gesture, it is best not to buy gifts for a single participant because it singles them out from a group.

What kind of contact with participants can you have outside of your project?
Each program has different rules for this, so you should ask your project coordinator about this when the issue arises.

What do you do when there is a problem with a project coordinator?
First talk to the project coordinator about the problem. If this does not help things, you may then want to go to your division chair or the chairperson to discuss the issue.

What do you do when you learn a child is being neglected or abused?
First go to your project coordinator in private and discuss the issue with them. Then go together to talk to the site contact at the site or the appropriate leader in the community so that they can deal with the matter. DO NOT get involved by yourself!

How do you create a new program?
If you have an idea for a new program, you must figure out how you will execute this program and why it is necessary. Then you can talk to the chairperson about or advisor about adding another program. If they think it is ok, then you will present it in front of the board at a board meeting and the board will vote on whether they think this program should entered. It is then your responsibility to get the project up and running.

How can I access more information about my project and my community?
You can always ask your project coordinator or old volunteers about the project, in addition, you can go to websites online to learn more about New Orleans history and culture. Lastly, drive around the neighborhood or ask your project coordinator to drive you around so you can see more of the community.