In early October, the DCSEU kicked off its latest community-focused endeavor to create healthier, more efficient neighborhoods across the District. The DCSEU launched the Refresh the District initiative in Ward 8's Skyland neighborhood with Skyland Community Day. Skyland is home to more than 30 households that participated in the DCSEU's 2012 Affordable Solar initiative. Now, the DCSEU is returning to bring these neighbors comprehensive efficiency, health, and home maintenance solutions.
Partnering with Habitat for Humanity, NBC 4 Washington, United Planning Office (UPO), and Major League Baseball, the DCSEU hosted a block party for Skyland residents. The DCSEU and its partners helped residents engage in a discussion about what they need to improve their homes and community, provided free Home Energy Conservation Kits, connected residents with resources at UPO, and hosted energy-themed trivia games. The DCSEU distributed 40 Home Energy Conservation Kits containing an Advanced Power Strip, six LED light bulbs, a low-flow faucet aerator, and educational materials to Skyland residents. The DCSEU will contrinue to work with these residents to identify further opportunities to save energy and stay comfortable in their homes.
"Truly a great partnership between DCSEU and Habitat for Humanity," said Tawana Stevens, Habitat for Humanity of Washington DC. "Together we have begun to improve the quality of life for Skyland families through energy education and energy kits. The event was a great success, and we look forward to making the future even brighter through our continued partnership."
The DCSEU will return to this Skyland neighborhood to provide no-cost home energy audits to income-qualified residents, and will continue to engage with residents and a growing list of partners to serve the additional needs identified by residents at Skyland Community Day.