Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth (D-Peoria) visited a job training class made possible by funds from the Urban Weatherization Initiative (UWI) Monday. The Peoria Citizens Committee for Economic Opportunity (PCCEO) was one of ten organizations to receive funding to train for this training program.
“I am very excited to be able to see all of the work that the students have been doing. They are learning skills that will help them find jobs in our community,” Gordon-Booth said. “Ensuring that people have the skills that they need is key to putting people back to work.”
Skills that will be taught through the UWI include: repairing and replacing inefficient heating and cooling units; improving air infiltration through weather stripping, caulking, and window and door replacement; installing pipes and duct insulation, and teaching the basic skills needed on job interviews. PCCEO worked with Illinois Central College (ICC) to administer the program. Participants are halfway through their eight-week training program. Another session will start after upon completion.
“The Urban Weather Initiative is a multifaceted program. Not only will these individuals receive they training they need to find jobs, but their work will help homeowners make their homes more energy efficient and save money on their energy bills,” Gordon-Booth said. “I would like to thank the PCCEO and ICC for working together and bringing this program to our community.”
This program was made possible when PCCEO received a Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity grant earlier this year. PCCEO will be able to train over 50 people and later assist homeowners in applying for weatherization grants.
For more information about this and other grant opportunities, please contact Rep. Gordon-Booth’s constituent services office at (309) 681-1992 or by via e-mail at repjgordon@gmail.com.
