SEATTLE - A new Labor Department report shows our national unemployment
rate is still stuck at 10%. But a new jobs program locally in Western
Washington could provide some new hope for workers here and across the
country, with an opportunity that's right outside your window.
It's a green jobs program called "Sustainable Works," paid for by the federal stimulus act. The program will train workers in clean-energy industries, and could provide some better weather protection and cost savings for your home in the process.
Seattle's Wedgewood neighborhood--the whole neighborhood--is getting a remodel. Dozens of houses here are going through an energy audit. Workers are using infrared measurements to show where heat is leaking out. It's part of a new green program called Sustainable Works, which is already bringing huge changes to families like the Singers. Rabbi Beth Singer says, "They put in a new efficient water heater. They put in new insulation so apparently we'll sleep better tonight. We'll be much warmer in the cold bedrooms over the garage. So we're thrilled."
Senator Patty Murray's sleeping much better too, knowing that the $14 million she helped put in this program, through the stimulus fund, is going to good use. As many as 2,000 homes will get weather retrofits in the next two years in our state, creating hundreds of jobs and possibly, solid roots for a new industry. Senator Murray says, "We hope to show at the end of this pilot program that this kind of program is sustainable into the future because it pays for itself through saving money for homeowners, by retaining workers, and by recouping the money at the end of the day."
For new energy consultant Don LaCourse, the program's a new lease on life. "A year and a half ago, I was unemployed," explains LaCourse. But he says this program will really take off once other people realize what can happen here in Northeast Seattle can happen anywhere. LaCourse says, "They recognize the importance not only to their home comfort, and their enjoyment of their home, but also, what saving energy is doing for the environment and the country as a whole."
To learn more about Sustainable Works and how you can get involved, as a homeowner or a contractor, follow this link.
It's a green jobs program called "Sustainable Works," paid for by the federal stimulus act. The program will train workers in clean-energy industries, and could provide some better weather protection and cost savings for your home in the process.
Seattle's Wedgewood neighborhood--the whole neighborhood--is getting a remodel. Dozens of houses here are going through an energy audit. Workers are using infrared measurements to show where heat is leaking out. It's part of a new green program called Sustainable Works, which is already bringing huge changes to families like the Singers. Rabbi Beth Singer says, "They put in a new efficient water heater. They put in new insulation so apparently we'll sleep better tonight. We'll be much warmer in the cold bedrooms over the garage. So we're thrilled."
Senator Patty Murray's sleeping much better too, knowing that the $14 million she helped put in this program, through the stimulus fund, is going to good use. As many as 2,000 homes will get weather retrofits in the next two years in our state, creating hundreds of jobs and possibly, solid roots for a new industry. Senator Murray says, "We hope to show at the end of this pilot program that this kind of program is sustainable into the future because it pays for itself through saving money for homeowners, by retaining workers, and by recouping the money at the end of the day."
For new energy consultant Don LaCourse, the program's a new lease on life. "A year and a half ago, I was unemployed," explains LaCourse. But he says this program will really take off once other people realize what can happen here in Northeast Seattle can happen anywhere. LaCourse says, "They recognize the importance not only to their home comfort, and their enjoyment of their home, but also, what saving energy is doing for the environment and the country as a whole."
To learn more about Sustainable Works and how you can get involved, as a homeowner or a contractor, follow this link.
Source: http://www.q13fox.com/news/kcpq-010810-greenjobs,0,963229.story 