New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity's (NOAHH) Joe Blanchek received the Champions of Tourism Award from the New Orleans Convention and Visitors' Bureau (NOCVB) on May 10, 2012 during National Tourism Week for his leadership role in the reconstruction of homes with NOAHH. Joe currently serves as Secretary for NOAHH's Board of Directors. 

As General Manager of New Orleans Downtown Marriott Convention Center Hotel, Joe has become very involved in his community with various projects throughout his career.  Following Hurricane Katrina, Joe put his passion for community service to work and led the Habitat for Humanity subcommittee for the Greater New Orleans Hotel and Lodging Association establishing bold fundraising and volunteer goals.  Since 2007, over $230,000 has been raised along with more than 12,000 volunteer hours donated from the hospitality community.  He has championed informational meetings for hotel employees to understand how they can become a Habitat homeowner and to date, 37 hotel employees are proud recipients of a New Orleans Habitat for Humanity home. 

Joe's commitment continues with his leadership in regular meetings with local business leaders to help educate them on how they can become involved with New Orleans Habitat for Humanity.

NOAHH is proud of Joe Blanchek's dedication and commitment to our mission!!