Local Community Members Donate over 57,000 Hours of Service to MSY Volunteer Programs NEW ORLEANS  – The Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is celebrating National Volunteer Week by recognizing the local volunteers who power the passenger experience through customer service. Across three distinct programs—Lagniappe KREWE, Military Lounge and MSY K9 KREWE—local volunteers have collectively donated more than 57,000 hours of service, greeting millions of travelers, comforting them with service animals, and honoring the nation’s servicemen and women. “Our volunteers are the soul of this place,” said Kevin Dolliole, Director of Aviation for MSY. “They are the first smile a traveler sees and the lasting impression they carry home. We honor the 57,000 hours of heart they have poured into providing a world-class experience at this Airport, and we are grateful for every hour they have given. It is a testament to the generosity of this community and the New Orleans spirit.” The Lagniappe KREWE (Knowledgeable Respectful Employees Work to Excel) volunteers are stationed throughout the terminal to greet and direct guests, answer questions, and share their knowledge of the region. Launched in December 2011, 65 volunteers have donated a combined 40,554 hours, helping passengers navigate the terminal. Lagniappe KREWE volunteers have stepped up during recent government shutdowns, hurricanes, snowstorms, Super Bowl and other major events. Donald Costello is the longest serving volunteer with 7,703 hours of service donated to MSY. The Military Lounge at MSY has served more than 38,000 service members thanks to the help of 47 dedicated volunteers who have donated 13,833 hours since launching in May 2023. The lounge welcomes all active military personnel with a valid ID and their dependents to enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, comfortable seating, charging stations, and luggage storage. Military Lounge volunteer Adam Linebarger has donated the most hours with 1,182 hours of service. The MSY K9 KREWE was founded in June 2018, in collaboration with local animal therapy organization, Visiting Pet Program, to provide comfort to travelers. There are currently 10 active therapy dogs, and since its inception, more than 27 volunteers and their pet companions have donated a total of 2,834 hours. Cindy O’Donnell and her dog, Cusco, have contributed the most hours with 574 hours of service at MSY. The Louis Armstrong Airport invites community members to join its volunteer programs. Bilingual individuals and those fluent in American Sign Language are especially encouraged to apply. Volunteer opportunities are available daily from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m., with a suggested commitment of 20 hours per month. However, any amount of time is welcome. Those interested in joining the K9 KREWE may learn more at www.visitingpetprogram.org. To volunteer with the Lagniappe KREWE or Military Lounge, please complete the interest form at flymsy.com/business/working-at-msy/volunteers/.