By Rosie, Oakland Site, LIFT (Leader-In-Field-Training)
This summer, the Oakland site began the 2015 California Youth Energy Services (CYES) program with a bang!
Most of our incoming 2015 Energy Specialists (ES’) are new to CYES; yet, they have already shown immense enthusiasm and dedication to making our program a success. Notably, the site has already completed four Green House Calls (GHCs) within the first week of training! Although CYES has just begun, we’ve witnessed great enthusiasm from Oakland residents eager to receive GHCs and refer others to the program, serving as a testament to the power of Rising Sun’s mission and the beauty of the program.
CYES also places a strong emphasis on youth development. In our site, this is seen through what we call the “fam bam.” Not only do the Energy Specialists receive professional guidance from the site’s managers, but the ES’ have also taken it upon themselves to mentor and openly share their experiences with each other about topics concerning the youth today. So far, our discussions have ranged from college to professionalism.
Overall, our unique experience can be summed up in one Energy Specialist’s view of the program thus far. “This is my first real job and I am really enjoying it. I am getting paid to do what I love to do best– serve my community, while helping the environment.” It’s going to be a fantastic Oakland Summer.
