Wells Fargo grants fund NSR green workforce projects
Above: Pictured are graduates of the first Solar Workforce Training program cohort in partnership with South Hilltop Men’s Group.
Green Collar Job Pathways in Ecodistrict and Solar Workforce Program receive $22k
Pittsburgh, PA — The Wells Fargo Foundation has granted New Sun Rising (NSR) $12,000 for the Green Collar Job Pathways in Ecodistrict Neighborhoods and $10,000 for the Clean Energy Workforce Program.
The Green Collar Job Pathways in Ecodistricts seeks to address the loss of income and housing instability that worsened during COVID-19, disproportionately impacting Black and low-to-moderate income (LMI) communities, and will provide community members with onramps in related fields focused initially on solar.
The Clean Energy Workforce Program was established in 2021-2022 in part through support from the Wells Fargo Foundation. The program created a solar training and educational discovery zone facility, a solar installation curriculum and certification with Community College of Allegheny County, and a pipeline of community solar projects for field training and awareness. The current funding will expand and deepen the program for 2022-2023.
“As climate-related impacts become more frequent and intense, Pittsburgh has the opportunity to lead the way towards a more resilient, equitable future. We believe that begins by preparing our residents and small businesses to benefit from large investments spurring new economies like solar energy,” said Scott Wolovich, executive director for NSR.
Both grant programs will focus support with Ecodistrict communities such as Millvale, Etna, and Sharpsburg, as well as Beltzhoover, Knoxville, and Allentown in the City of Pittsburgh.
About New Sun Rising: New Sun Rising supports nonprofits, small businesses, and collaboratives to build vibrant communities through culture, sustainability, and opportunity. NSR believes that people and communities hold the knowledge and power to make positive change. We envision a future where regenerative community development practices create the conditions for true social, environmental, and economic justice.
About Wells Fargo Foundation: Wells Fargo is committed to building an inclusive, sustainable recovery for all through a focus on opening pathways to economic advancement, championing quality, affordable homes, empowering small businesses to thrive, and enabling a just, low-carbon economy.
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