The Hampton Roads Community Action Program (HRCAP) developed a unique pilot program dedicated to weatherization in the Virginia Peninsula, a geographically isolated area.
Weatherization Assistance Program
November 1, 2023
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About the Project
The Hampton Roads Community Action Program (HRCAP) developed a unique pilot program dedicated to weatherization in the Virginia Peninsula, a geographically isolated area.
Challenge
The Virginia Peninsula is a region that is geographically isolated and difficult to reach. This makes many programs more challenging to implement, and HRCAP recognized that it was creating barriers to hiring staff to support their weatherization program.
Solution
HRCAP obtained a one-time grant in the amount of $600,000 from the Dominion Energy EnergyShare Workforce Development Fund to develop a new local weatherization construction skills pilot program. The program takes a family-centered approach, offering not only industry-recognized certifications, but also job-readiness skills and scholarship opportunities for additional courses on math, writing, reading, etc. The HRCAP pilot includes 6–8 weeks of training, plus paid internships and externship placement. At the end of the program, participants receive career-readiness certificates.
Positive Impact
All eight of the pilot’s program graduates found employment after their training.
The eight fully employed program graduates are a testament to the strength of the program, the importance of partnerships, and HRCAP's commitment to its community!
Partners
- The Hampton Roads Community Action Program
- Dominion Energy
This story was developed using content from the National Association for State Community Services Program website. View the content on their website.