YouthBuild Philadelphia Leads Green Build at National Mall
On March 17, 2009, YouthBuild Philadelphia led a “green” home building initiative at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. in celebration of YouthBuild USA’s 30th anniversary. Roughly 20 YouthBuild Philadelphia students and instructors joined more than 100 other young leaders from YouthBuild programs across the country, in addition to public officials and community leaders, to frame the walls of an energy-efficient, affordable home for a low-income family in Brownsville, Texas. The participants raised the walls of the house during the afternoon, after which the pieces were sent to Brownsville for completion.

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YouthBuild Philadelphia instructors lend support as a student helps to nail the green house frame.

A YouthBuild student learns the proper techniques for spray foam insulation.

First Lady Michelle Obama keynoted in a special afternoon ceremony, commending the students on their commitment to green initiatives and community service. Obama was introduced by YouthBuild USA Founder and President Dorothy Stoneman. Senator John Kerry closed the ceremony, speaking about his long-time friendship with Stoneman, and reminiscing about his participation in encouraging the first federal funding support for YouthBuild.

YouthBuild USA President Dorothy Stoneman introduces Michelle Obama, the First Lady of the United States, during YouthBuild USA's 30th anniversary celebration ceremony at the National Mall.

Senator John Kerry addresses the crowd at YouthBuild USA's 30th anniversary celebration ceremony at the National Mall.

While in the District, students also participated in a "green" school, learning about green collar jobs, green schools, energy responsibility and environmental awareness.

YouthBuild Philadelphia student Barbara Ford observes a demonstration during a green class, at the YouthBuild USA 30th Anniversary green building project at the National Mall.

YouthBuild Green Building

YouthBuild Philadelphia incorporates many green practices into its rehabilitation projects, such as the installation of Energy Star Appliances and high efficiency heating systems, and the use of energy efficient insulation and windows. The March green building project exposed students to new green techniques and enhanced YouthBuild’s stake in green initiatives in the Philadelphia community.

YouthBuild Philadelphia has identified one house rehabilitation project (in the Nicetown area of Philadelphia) for the 2009-2010 program year, for which the students will incorporate all green building techniques. YouthBuild Philadelphia's green building initiatives were recently featured in the May 21, 2009 edition of the Inquirer.

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