Roots Interns Amberly and Shawna getting dirty at Waipa
This program is no longer active.
To strengthen our sustainable economy, we launched the Roots of Kaua’i Green Careers Certificate program to provide free green jobs literacy training for Kauai’s young adults, aged 18 to 35. Our goal is to create economic opportunity for graduates, promote environmental stewardship within the community, and enhance the growth and success of Kaua`i green organizations and businesses.
Our 10-week Green Careers Certificate program includes:
- 80 classroom hours focusing on environmental and career development education
- a 100-hour internship within one of Kauai’s sustainability-focused or green organizations/businesses
- the development of a green business or community project plan with a ‘pitch’ to community leaders
- New in 2015, program graduates will receive a $500 stipend to be used for starting their business or continuing their education!
Students will gain environmental literacy, academic skills, leadership abilities, career development knowledge, and practical hands-on training to prepare them for future success.
What is a green job? We follow United Nations Environment Program’s definition: “work in agricultural, manufacturing, research and development (R&D), administrative, and service activities that contribute(s) substantially to preserving or restoring environmental quality. Specifically, but not exclusively, this includes jobs that help to protect ecosystems and biodiversity; reduce energy, materials, and water consumption through high efficiency strategies; de-carbonize the economy; and minimize or altogether avoid generation of all forms of waste and pollution.” We also have a strong focus on social entrepreneurship to support those who are interested in exploring self-employment or starting a business.
Mahalo to our gracious 2015 partners:
The Joseph and Vera Long Foundation
Kaua`i Island Utility Cooperative
Garden Isle Foundation
RSF Social Finance
Ross Stores