Exelon Foundation Grant Supports Green Employment in Philadelphia

Exelon Foundation has extended a financial grant to the Student Conservation Association (SCA) in support of the SCA's urban conservation programs in the country. A part of the $150,000 grant is aimed at promoting green employment opportunities for the underserved youth in Philadelphia.

As a part of this employment program, more than 60 underserved teens in Philadelphia have secured green jobs and leadership opportunities. SCA supported these youth through career training, environmental education and imparting conservation skills.

The Exelon Foundation is funded by Exelon Corporation, which is the parent company of PECO, the electric and gas utility company in Philadelphia. The grant recipient, SCA, recruits teenagers from youth serving organizations, local schools and religious institutions, and leads them to participate in trail building and ecological restoration projects in area parks.

The recruited young students receive a paycheck while gaining new conservations skills and environmental knowledge and the necessary training that helps them pursue conservation careers successfully.

With financial support from the Exelon Foundation, the SCA has achieved considerable success in Philadelphia already. More than 40 youth in the state, hailing from low-income or under-represented backgrounds, are now working in outdoor conservation jobs. Another 20 local teens are involved in year-round service learning outdoor programs.

Exelon Foundation President Steve Solomon said: "These young people are talented and engaged, and exemplify the Exelon Foundation's commitment to environmental stewardship. The Foundation is pleased to continue its work with SCA to encourage and build the next generation of conservation leaders."

SCA Philadelphia Program Coordinator Corrin Omowunmi said: "With youth unemployment running at near record levels, on-the-job experience can provide a valuable competitive edge. SCA is pleased to extend our partnership with the Exelon Foundation, provide new opportunities for local youth, and help protect the environment of this great city."

The program participants have worked at Philadelphia's John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, Fairmount Park and Wissahickon Valley Green Park, among other locations.

Photo Credit: juliaf