Ryan’s Giving Tree x Tu Fashion: Bridging the Gap
Founded in the spring of 2022 by Sandy Ryan, Ryan’s Giving Tree (RGT) started as a heartfelt mission to create meaningful change for New Orleans’ homeless community. Sandy, a former Tulane basketball player and Freeman School graduate, teamed up with his friends Sion and Brock to pool resources and deliver food, medical supplies, and other necessities to homeless encampments across the city. What began as a small effort to leave a legacy of compassion has since blossomed into a larger organization, now with a dedicated club on Tulane’s campus.
Sandy remains deeply involved as the founder and driving force of RGT, leveraging his connections with major nonprofits and serving as a consultant for the City of New Orleans to address homelessness. His dedication inspires many, including RGT Vice President Ronan McDonnell, who shared, “Sandy is one of the best guys I know. He genuinely cares about every interaction he has, both with volunteers and those we serve.”
The on-campus RGT club was established with two primary goals: to ensure the sustainability of RGT’s mission and to provide Tulane students with an eye-opening experience that fosters empathy and leadership. Through their weekly outreach efforts, students not only deliver essentials but also build connections with the unhoused community, gaining life lessons that extend beyond the classroom.
A highlight of their efforts this year was RGTFest, a collaborative event with TU Fashion, led by their President Jordan Saks, Ronan McDonnell, and TU Fashion President Sam Goldman. Held under a highway bridge near the Superdome, the event provided over 1,000 articles of clothing, 250 pairs of shoes, hygiene kits, and warm holiday meals to hundreds in need. Thoughtfully organized stations created a welcoming atmosphere, with volunteers helping attendees choose clothing and shoes while engaging in meaningful conversations.
Sam Goldman’s leadership and TU Fashion’s expertise in marketing and photography significantly elevated the event’s impact. Ronan remarked, “Sam’s work ethic was infectious. Her attention to detail motivated all of us to go the extra mile.”
Volunteers left inspired, as Rachel Gardner shared, “The experiences we provide leave a mark on those we serve and on us. RGT makes an immense impact on the New Orleans community, and I’m so grateful to be part of it.” Eva Kravetz echoed this sentiment, saying, “RGT has taught me lifelong lessons of resilience, compassion, and community.”
As the current RGT executive board prepares for graduation, they are confident the club will continue to thrive with the next generation of dedicated volunteers. Sandy’s vision, combined with the hard work of students, has created a movement that will leave a lasting legacy in New Orleans. For anyone inspired to join, RGT welcomes new volunteers eager to make a difference.