Reducing energy use in people’s homes and daily lives is actually pretty simple. Much of it is inexpensive and easy to do, and for the more advanced improvements there are tons of government programs that can help people out. Our education program informs people of how they can decrease their energy use, of the programs available to help them, and how reducing their energy use can help their financial bottom line as well as the environment.

Canvassing Dorms and Neighborhoods
There is no better way to educate and engage a neighborhood than to take the issue directly to them. Going door to door in the community is a great way to educate homeowners, renters and small business owners. Our volunteers distribute valuable information about energy efficiency, hand out energy efficient light bulbs, collect energy pledges, and identify community members interested in energy assessments or hosting house parties to help educate their neighbors.

House Parties
House parties are hosted by a local resident, who is responsible for recruiting their friends and neighbors to their home's energy assessment and weatherization. As part of the event, our volunteers teach attendees how to do an assessment themselves, while actually carrying one out for the host.

Program Highlight: New Brunswick Light Bulb Distribution
In Fall 2009, AmeriCorps Member Heather Plante planned a community light bulb distribution program in New Brunswick with Project Porchlight, a local coalition partner. Heather and her student interns recruited members of the Sigma Lambda Beta and Theta Delta Chi fraternities to volunteer at the event. In total, 36 volunteers distributed over nearly 500 compact flourescent light bulbs to community members through this one event.