Groups from Immanuel Lutheran Church in East Dundee have visited New Orleans two years running to help restore some of the ravages of hurricanes Katrina and Rita. This year, to help fund these efforts, a benefit dinner planned for Saturday, Nov. 14, in the Immanuel Christian Life Center, Luther Hall at 6 p.m. with a social hour and dinner at 7 p.m.

The trip for 2010 is already in motion and to kick off the beginning of the mission trip New Orleans is coming to East Dundee.

The Rev. Dave Buss, along with other New Orleans residents, all survivors of Hurricane Katrina, will be arriving in East Dundee ready to prepare a feast for locals. They plan on bringing their own pots, pans and spices.

Each year, congregation members team up with other Lutheran churches in the area and travel to New Orleans and to Camp Restore, north of the Lower Ninth Ward.

Camp Restore was a Lutheran school that was modified to house the many people from across America who've lent a hand in helping New Orleans residents restore their homes.

While some of the members of the Immanuel team have construction expertise, most don't. Consider the Rev. Phillip Baerwolf, who over the years has become known to many as the "Cajun Cut Man." Not because he is Cajun but because he wields big insulation scissors and cuts insulation to fit in the walls of these New Orleans homes. "The people of New Orleans still need our help four years after Katrina came ashore - coming to this special night and hearing the stories shared and enjoying the food and giving a free will donation is just one small way we can respond to God's goodness and love for us by giving back to those who have so little," Baerwolf said.

The proceeds from the benefit will support Camp Restore and the continuing recovery efforts in New Orleans. The benefit is sponsored by the Gulf Coast Mission Trip, NorthWest Suburban Partnership. An offering will be taken at the door.

RSVP before Thursday, Nov. 10. Call the church office at (847) 428-4477 and leave a message on how many will be in your party. Or e-mail pbaerwolf@immanuel-ed.org.