Rep. Israel & United Way Hold YouthBuild Conference to Connect YouthBuild Students and Alumni with Local Green Energy Employers

Press Release

On Tuesday, Rep. Steve Israel (D -- Huntington) joined with Theresa Regnante, United Way's President and CEO, to hold a conference connecting YouthBuild Long Island students and alumni with local green energy employers and community leaders.

"YouthBuild Long Island is training the next generation for promising careers in green jobs. This conference is about connecting these future energy leaders with the businesses that are growing our green energy economy right here on Long Island," said Rep. Israel. "I've been proud to work with YouthBuild for several years and even more proud to have a YouthBuild graduate work for me in my Hauppauge office. With firsthand knowledge, I know that this program gives young people the skills to make them an effective part of our green workforce."

YouthBuild Long Island has received federal funding, including an FY09 $1 million appropriation secured by Rep. Israel and $1.1 million from the American Recover and Reinvestment Act.

"United Way of Long Island appreciates Congressman Israel's continued support of our YouthBuild Long Island program," said Regnante. "This $1 million investment over two years prepares YouthBuild students for real emerging green job and national, transportable and stackable credentials for assured success. Congressman Israel's recognition of their career ambitions and goals is an integral component in the continued success of YouthBuild Long Island in this region."

More than 35 local business and community leaders attended the conference. The event also included a YouthBuild student-led tour of the new E3 Career Training Center in Deer Park, a green building that will give YouthBuild students hands on training with the latest equipment and technology.

YouthBuild Long Island is a free youth and community-development program, and alternative school, that simultaneously addresses core issues facing low-income communities. The program serves low-income young adults ages 18--24 and includes career counseling and training for jobs in the growing green building sector.

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