ricRACK is a community sewing studio and creative reuse center nonprofit in New Orleans. A place to learn how to sew, create, grow, imagine, re-use, sustain, and succeed.

We champion the ethos of sustainability, encouraging the repurposing and upcycling of materials, reducing waste and contributing to a healthier environment. Through these principles, we aim to create a ripple effect of positive change that extends beyond our walls and into the community.

Funding is vital to ricRACK's mission of fostering creativity, sustainability, and community. With adequate support, we can expand our educational programs, offer accessible workshops, and provide necessary resources for individuals to learn sewing, creative expression, and sustainable practices. Financial assistance enables us to further our environmental impact by promoting reuse and reducing textile waste. Additionally, funding allows us to develop initiatives that empower individuals, especially those in underserved communities, fostering personal growth and resilience. With your support, we can continue to build a stronger, more inclusive community while making a tangible difference in environmental conservation and skill development.

Ricrack’s History

Founded in 2012 by Alison Parker, a former costume and wardrobe manager with over 20 years of experience in the film industry, RicRack emerged as a response to the sobering reality of 11 million tons of discarded textiles, including a significant portion from film and television productions, piling up in national landfills annually. Parker's vision was to address the profound environmental impact of textile waste, particularly in our delicate delta region, while also educating our community about its repercussions.

Initially serving as the volunteer Executive Director, Parker steered RicRack's initiatives until her retirement in July 2022, marking a significant milestone by hiring the organization's first paid ED. In June 2022, Lizz Freeman stepped into this role. A seasoned New Orleans-based fiber artist with a rich background in both nonprofit work and clothing retail management, Freeman has since devoted herself wholeheartedly to advancing the mission and goals of the organization.

Ricrack By The Numbers 2023

Ricrack’s Programs and Funding Sources:

Ricrack Needs Your Support!

By RICRACK INC

Ricrack Needs Your Support!

HELP US STICK AROUND IN 2024!