Currents

An Energy Newsletter for Local Governments

The Corps Network: A Workforce to Meet Community Energy Needs

We know all too well that communities are struggling with rising energy costs, especially low-income communities. These communities can’t fully address this crisis because funding is limited and there is not a capable workforce to weatherize homes. One might conclude that we are unprepared for the growing green economy-- a massive mobilization of people and resources that will make the changes required to increase our energy efficiency and conservation. But this need not be the case.

The Corps Network, which represents Service and Conservation Corps, sees tremendous opportunity as the rapidly emerging green economy fits with the Corps’ proven ability to move young men and women into careers in energy conservation and protection of natural habitats.

There are 116 Service and Conservation Corps operating in 42 states and the District of Columbia. These state and local programs primarily engage youth and young adults (ages 16-25) in service. The Corps model is flexible. Some Corps are independent nonprofits, some are state agencies, while others are hosted through parent, nonprofit organizations resulting in youth-serving organization tailored to a communities’ capacity and needs. Many Corps are actively engaged in the green economy, while countless others are preparing to enter this growing field. Visit The Corps Network website, find out what Corps operates in your community, and see how you can partner with them.

Right now, whether directly by weatherizing a home, or indirectly, by fighting invasive species and restoring habitat, Corps are preparing for the green economy. Currently 34% of all Service and Conservation Corps funding comes from state, county and municipal grants and other funding, making up a crucial element of Corps’ partnerships.

Beginning in the 1980s, the California Conservation Corps (CCC), housed within state government, partnered with local community-based organizations, often funded through local government programs, to weatherize homes all over the state. In addition to training their own members, public utilities trained Corpsmembers in energy auditing, weatherization, lighting conservation and photovoltaic installations. The CCC also partnered with a community college for training in construction, lighting, HVAC, and solar hot water installations. Through these partnerships, the CCC helped Corpsmembers gain the technical knowledge to effectively weatherize a home for maximum health and energy benefits. Today, the CCC partners with utility companies to provide energy efficiency measures, however no large-scale weatherization projects are underway. The California Conservation Corps conducts energy efficient lighting retrofits in public buildings in Central California, thus demonstrating the Corps’ ability to meet community needs.

Corps also effectively partner through parent organizations like community action agencies. In Fresno, the Economic Opportunities Commission (EOC) houses the Fresno Local Conservation Corps. The EOC/Fresno Local Conservation Corps (FLCC) contracts with the local housing authority for its vacancy preparation work. Corps members complete weatherstripping and insulation work, install energy efficient cooling units (high efficiency swamp coolers) and canvass neighborhoods with energy conservation and safety information. FLCC also helps Corps members earn certificates in relevant fields. For example, Corps members can earn HVAC certification through a partnership with the community college. This helps create a highly skilled workforce prepared to meet the construction needs in the community.

The Tulare County Conservation Corps, also housed within the Community Action Agency, provides extensive services in this rural community. Each year, the Corps weatherizes 250-500 houses. This typically consists of testing the home, installing new doors and windows, repairing holes in the "envelope," and weather-stripping and caulking. Funding for weatherization projects is funneled through the Community Action Agency from Department of Energy’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Corps members also plant shade trees in public spaces and for energy clients. Without the Corps, hundreds of homes would not receive necessary services in this rural community.

The Corps operates in both urban and rural environments. The programs serve as important training grounds, while meeting the needs of a community. As you consider how to address rising energy costs facing low-income families in your community, consider partnering with a Corps in your community.

This article was provided by Sally T. Prouty, President and CEO of The Corps Network.

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