KEY TAKEAWAYS: NORD distributed $293,826 in stipends to 670 New Orleans teens participating in 2026 summer programs. The investment increased nearly 16% from summer 2025, when NORD provided more than $254,000. Summer Career Camp participants received $201,345, while Teen Summer Sports Challeng e participants received $92,481. Programs provided career exploration and training in leadership, teamwork, technology, media, sports and aquatics.   The New Orleans Recreation Development Commission provided nearly $294,000 in stipends to 670 teenagers participating in its 2026 summer programs, increasing its investment by about $40,000 from last year. NORD distributed $293,826 through its Summer Career Camps and Teen Summer Sports Challenge, according to the agency. The stipends allowed participants to earn money while taking part in career development, sports and enrichment programs. The agency provided $201,345 in stipends to participants in its Summer Career Camps and another $92,481 to teens in the Summer Sports Challenge. The Summer Career Camps offered 12 program options focused on hands-on learning, career exploration and skill development. The sports challenge included basketball, flag football, volleyball, esports, junior lifeguard training and podcasting. NORD said the programs were designed to develop skills including teamwork, leadership, communication and problem-solving while exposing participants to potential career paths in sports, aquatics, technology and media. The $293,826 investment represents an increase of nearly 16% from summer 2025, when NORD distributed more than $254,000 in teen stipends. “NORD’s investment in our teens is an investment in the future of New Orleans,” NORD interim CEO Natasha Robinson said. “These programs give young people an opportunity to earn, to lead, to discover their strengths and to see themselves as capable of achieving more.” Robinson said the stipends provide an immediate financial benefit while recognizing the time and effort teenagers put into the programs. “Every stipend reflects a young person showing up, putting in the work and gaining skills, confidence and experiences they can carry with them beyond the summer,” Robinson said. “When we invest in our young people and give them meaningful opportunities to grow, we are helping build a stronger, more confident and more connected city.” NORD operates its summer programming with staff and community partners who help organize and run camps and activities across New Orleans. ...read more read less