Affordable Energy Reduction For All

Four years ago I joined the Schenectady YouthBuild program, which lead me to the green construction field, specifically residential energy reduction/conservation. After graduating from the program and completing 900 hours of Americorps hours, I began working for the social enterprise created by the local parent company of YouthBuild. I worked my way up the ladder to Crew Chief, attaining many BPI certifications and invaluable experience. I also worked very closely with the current YouthBuild students, watching many of them move on to great futures. Three weeks ago I was told that the entire career development center would be dissolved, that I would be laid off and that the company I worked so hard to help build would be no more. At that time, I made he decision to go out on my own. Not only will I have the opportunity to be my own boss, I will also be able to open paid internships for some of the attendants of the YouthBuild program, hopefully giving them the same life changing experience I have been given. More importantly, this fund will help to bring affordable residential weatherization/energy reduction to many people who may not qualify for subsidies. I intend to offer small scale measures that have a large impact, making health/safety and customer education a top priority. Help this woman/minority owned business become a substantial part of the residential energy efficiency community; and a contender amongst giants that often overlook the immensely positive impact of hiring "disadvantaged youth". These proceeds will be put towards a work truck and machinery.
Thank you,
       Erica C. Melendez