Agency: Community Energy Project, Inc.

Description:

Community Energy Project, Inc., empowers people in the Portland metro area to maintain healthier, more livable homes, control their utility costs, and conserve natural resources.

We do this through education, hands-on training, and distribution of weatherization, water conservation, and lead poisoning prevention materials. We also provide direct weatherization and water conservation services to seniors and people with disabilities. We deliver these services in partnership with community members and service organizations, utilities, corporations, foundations, and government agencies. We envision a future where all people can afford to live in their homes with dignity, comfort, and safety.

This MLK Weekend, participate in "on the ground" work and take pride in helping seniors and people with disabilities weatherize their homes for the winter season!

Using simple draft stopping and energy saving materials such as silicone-acrylic and rope caulk, interior vinyl storm windows, and door weatherstripping, individuals and teams of volunteers weatherize the homes of 230 seniors and people with disabilities every year. We provide training for all of our volunteers before heading out to the homes. Basic knowledge of tools is useful, but not necessary, for this project.

Volunteers will arrive at the CEP's office by 9am for a brief Orientation and Training and then split into two or three groups and carpool and/or walk (depending on proximity) to a few different home sites for the projects themselves. Each group will receive on site training by CEP staff and work on their project for a few hours and after we will reconvene for the last 30-40 minutes back at the CEP's office to reflect upon and discuss our day's experience over a brown bad lunch style session (Food will not be provided, but CEP has a refrigerator to store lunches).

Participants need to wear respectable clothes that they don't mind getting a little dirty. The work is indoors, however volunteers are encouraged to wear layers because home temperatures vary. Upon signing up, please let your volunteer leader know if you have any allergies or pet/smoke intolerance, as we will be working in people's home and we want to do our best to ensure comfortable working environments for everyone.

This project is great for families with kids ages 10 and older. All  volunteers under 18 must attend and work with a parent/adult chaperone. Volunteers under age 18 will need to bring TWO waivers signed by a Parent/Guardian - a Hands On waiver and a Community Energy Project waiver; please click on the links below to download both:

Hands On Youth Waiver

Community Energy Project Youth Waiver

Impact Areas: Renovation, Revitalization and Repair, Environment

Interests: The interests recommended for this project are:
Aging & Disability Services, Community Enrichment, Health, Affordable Housing

Skills: The skills helpful for participation in this project are:
Construction & Home Repair