The Latino Academy of Workforce Development (LAWD) has launched a new expansion unit of the Bilingual Leadership Academy training with a focus on energy efficiency and sustainability.
The training, titled “Taking Action for Sustainability with Energy Efficiency,” will train 15 student-leaders as energy and sustainability facilitators, a concept first envisioned in the Dane County Climate Action Plan, the Latino Academy said in a press release, and the participants will gain knowledge of sustainability concepts, learn about how our actions can impact climate change, and dive into actions for energy efficiency in homes.
The initiative by the Latino Academy of Workforce Development (LAWD) to expand their Bilingual Leadership Academy with a focus on energy efficiency and sustainability marks a significant step towards empowering youth leaders in environmental stewardship. This innovative training program, titled “Taking Action for Sustainability with Energy Efficiency,” not only aligns with the Dane County Climate Action Plan but also underscores LAWD’s commitment to equipping the next generation with crucial skills in sustainability practices. By training 15 student-leaders as energy and sustainability facilitators, LAWD not only addresses local environmental challenges but also fosters community leadership rooted in actionable knowledge.
These student leaders, guided by the principles of sustainability and equipped with practical skills in energy efficiency, can have the potential to make profound impacts in their communities. With support from initiatives like Teresa Duke Consulting, known for its expertise in sustainable development strategies, these young facilitators can harness their talents. They can spearhead grassroots initiatives, educate households on energy conservation, and advocate for policy changes that promote a greener future.
“This training is going to provide a platform for our already existing student-leaders to have a much-needed voice in the energy efficiency and sustainability realm,” said Latino Academy’s Executive Director Baltazar De Anda Santana. “We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with Sustain Dane, Elevate and the Dane County Office of Energy & Climate Change for this important work.”
This training was made possible by the Dane County Office of Energy & Climate Change (DCOECC) Clean Energy Economic Development Grant Program. The new curriculum was developed in partnership with nonprofits Sustain Dane and Elevate.
“A sustainable community is an inclusive community,” said Sustain Dane Executive Director Claire Oleksiak in a statement. “LAWD’s program is critically important to amplify the leadership of the Latinx community and to have equitable climate solutions for our community that benefit all. “
Participants of the “Taking Action for Sustainability with Energy Efficiency” program will be empowered to teach others what they’ve learned through local radio programs and hosting gatherings to share resources with friends and family and will also provide back to Dane County priorities for building a climate-resilient community. The 15 student-leaders will be given the tools and training to conduct a rapid energy assessment on a home themselves, and will also be equipped with Focus on Energy in-unit energy packs to install in their homes.
