This summer, wind power company Clean Currents will kick off “Lots of Power,” an exciting new mentoring program to address one of Philadelphia's greatest problems, vacant lots.

The project pairs high-school age students with professional designers and architects to research and develop innovative concepts for specific vacant lots in Kensington.  Clean Currents has officially launched a website as a central location for information about the program.

Lots of Power will be administered in partnership with Kensington Renewal, AIGA Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley Green Building Council.  During the six-week program, teen participants will work in teams with professional mentors to gain real-world experience using design thinking to discover and exhibit creative potential, communicate their ideas, and take positive action in their communities. 

The project speaks directly to one of Clean Currents’ brand principles, Community Engagement.

“At Clean Currents, we are constantly seeking projects that allow us to work alongside individuals and organizations taking an active role in improving their communities,” said Gary Skulnik, President of Clean Currents. “We spoke with community leaders and residents about the challenges Philadelphia is facing, and vacant lots came up repeatedly.”

Two winning concepts will be chosen at the end of the mentoring period – one through a jury process, the other through a public voting process via social media.  The two winning concepts will be given a monetary grant to implement their design ideas.

“There are 40,000 vacant lots in Philadelphia, detracting from the city’s beautiful neighborhoods and attracting crime,” said Skulnik.  “Lots of Power will make a difference for Kensington, the mentors, and the teens that participate.”

The guided program will run from July-August and is currently recruiting mentors.

If you would like more information on becoming a Lots of Power mentor, or you are an educator who would like to place students in the program, please contact Andréa Pellegrino by sending email to: andrea@pellegrinocollaborative.com by June 14th.  Limited opportunities are available.

5/27/2013