For more information, contact Aiden Graham, NCLCV Field Director; aiden@nclcv.org; (919) 597-8199

CHARLOTTE: Tomorrow, Charlotte neighborhoods will be filled with the sounds of “trick or treat” from children of all ages. But, for far too many parents, there are few “treats” when it comes to the reality of their energy bills. Working class families in the Queen City pay upwards of $400 a month to keep their lights on and homes warm.

But, this Halloween weekend, the folks at PowerUp NC are working with neighborhoods to bring resources into homes in order to turn those tricks into treats. From 12 – 3pm on Saturday, October 31, local residents will have the opportunity to work alongside organizers and volunteers to find out how they can make their homes more energy-efficient.

“October is National Energy Awareness Month. This is a great opportunity to engage residents who want to take action on lowering their energy bills but may not have the resources or information on how to start,” said Aiden Graham, NCLCV Field & Mobilization Director.

Weatherization projects can be simple, minor home repairs such as sealing air leaks around windows, securing air leakage around switch plates, and using caulk or spray foam to seal up cracks in walls. But, all of these small actions make a big difference when it comes to overall energy consumption, saving residents’ money and also helping reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

At Saturday’s event, residents will find multiple stations to learn more about ‘Do-It-Yourself’ weatherization techniques. For those who are unfamiliar with using caulk or foam sealant, volunteers will be on-hand to walk through how to use the tools properly, giving residents the knowledge to go home and put these tips into actual practice.

“We are partnering with residents to address the concerns they shared with us: a lack of sustainable jobs, affordable housing, and burdensome energy costs. Folks here are frustrated and are ready to take action. We want to give them agency to take the skills and knowledge back into their homes and neighborhoods, teaching others how they can take action too,” said Leslie Beliveau, Field Director with PowerUp NC.

This is the third weatherization event hosted by PowerUp NC this month and first in Charlotte. PowerUp NC organizers spent months listening to the concerns of community residents, especially in West Charlotte. The top three issues that came up time and time again: jobs, housing, and energy bills.

“West Charlotte is historically a very vibrant community that has experienced some decline in recent years. We can work together to revitalize our neighborhoods and weatherizing our homes is an important part of that,” said Tracey Battle, a West Charlotte resident and member of Tribe, one of the local grassroots organizations volunteering in support of PowerUp NC’s efforts in West Charlotte neighborhoods.

“Teaching weatherization techniques touches on all three of the concerns brought up by residents,” noted Beliveau. “Folks can develop the skills and apply them to not only their own homes but future employment. By fixing up homes, housing values increase and energy bills go down, putting money back into wallets. And, all of this forges stronger, more empowered communities.”

“We are working from the frame of utility justice,” said Danielle Hilton, PowerUp NC Field Director in Charlotte. “It’s about getting money back into folks’ pockets so they can pursue their career paths. And, this is about building resilience at the individual neighborhood level.”

This event, which is free and open to the public, will also include food, music, and kids’ activities. Repower Our Schools, an advocacy group urging Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Board of Education to commit to 100% renewable energy, is a partner for this event.

What: “Not Just Any Saturday in Black Arts District” Block Party

Where: Haines and LaSalle Street, Charlotte

When: Saturday, October 31

Time: 12 – 3pm

PowerUp NC is building a movement for a stronger economy, healthier environment, and a more inclusive democracy. Through public education, advocacy, and organizing, we are advancing energy efficiency and renewable energy projects that lower energy bills, improve housing conditions, and reduce pollution by lowering dependence on fossil fuels. PowerUp NC is a project of the NC League of Conservation Voters. You can find more information by visiting nclcv.org/PowerUpNC.