Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions

Newsletter

April Newsletter

genlack-dev, April 10, 2018

We are very pleased to introduce you to Jackie Verrecchia, FACS’ new Membership Engagement Manager. Jackie’s role is to work closely with FACS’ Community Council as well as expand FACS’ reach to faith communities across the county, particularly focusing on outreach to under-served communities. We hope to have Jackie meet as many of you as possible in the upcoming months. Jackie is an environmental studies graduate of Allegheny College. Her academic focus was intersectionality in environmental justice issues. Previous to FACS Jackie worked for a housing non-profit in Central Appalachia. Jackie has experience bringing together diverse groups of people, working with groups of faith, as well as listening and understanding stakeholder groups. Jackie is excited to meet and work alongside communities of faith in Northern Virginia to address climate issues! You may reach Jackie at jackie@faithforclimate.org.



Earth Day Events

Earth Day falls on Sunday, April 22nd but events are occurring all April. FACS partnered with Interfaith Power and Light to compile a list of events happening across the Metro Region. We encourage you to celebrate earth day by attending one of these interfaith events! Many of the events in Northern Virginia are being hosted by FACS congregations. View the online flyer to see events happening near you! Have another event to add? Contact us! Interested in learning about different environmental beliefs? Check out these resources!


Fairfax County Public Budget Hearings

Come join us and listen to several members of the FACS board and Advocacy teams speak in support of the Fairfax to Zero goals at the Fairfax County Public Budget Hearings. Fairfax to Zero is an effort to promote local policies that will reduce greenhouse gases by 2% every year, reaching carbon neutrality by 2050. Join us at the event and wear red to show solidarity of FACS members!

When: April 10th at 6:00 PM
Where: Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, VA 22035





Fairfax County LED Exchange Program
Fairfax County Libraries are exchanging incandescent light bulbs for Energy Star Certified LED light bulbs. Not only do LEDs save energy and have a longer lifespan, they also save money. Each household can get up to 5 free LEDs! For more information about the event and where to exchange light bulbs click here. The county needs volunteers for these events. If you are interested, please contact Jessica Lavender.


Solarize Fairfax County Campaign
For a limited time, you can get discounted solar systems for your home or business. Sign up between now and May 31 to be eligible for the reduced prices. Like a Groupon for solar, this program offers one-time, low prices with companies chosen through competitive bids. Fairfax County is partnering with the Northern Virginia Regional Commission and nonprofit Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP) to offer the discount.
Attend an information session to learn more. The first is April 4 at 7 p.m. at the Government Center, and you also may watch this meeting broadcast live on Channel 16.
As a first step to saving big on your electric bill, you must sign up for a free assessment—no commitment to go solar is required. LEAP then checks satellite imagery to see if solar works well at your location. If your home is a good candidate, you’ll get a visit from a qualified installer.
Almost 50 people went solar last year through this program, and they are each saving about $1,250 per year on their electricity bill. You could slash your bill by 60 percent or more, depending on the size solar system you install.
Learn more about the program. Please also contact LEAP at 703-517-7251‬, TTY 711, or info@solarizenova.org.


Solar on the Schools

Fairfax County Students are campaigning for solar panel installation on Fairfax County Schools. The group recently spoke at the Fairfax County School Board. Are you a youth and want to get involved in the campaign? Sign their petition and learn more about the campaign. Their next student summit is April 16th at the Oakton Public Library from 1:00PM to 3:00PM. Email jmhsseaclub@gmail.com to RSVP and for more information about the event.

Transportation and a Clean Environment Event

Attend this event, hosted by the Sierra Club Virginia Chapter, to learn how to advocate for Northern Virginia officials to put transit and smart growth first and benefit the entire Northern Virginia. Funding decisions for local public transportation are critical to conserve land, reduce energy use, and provide mobility. The Northern Virginia Transportation Authority has to select and prioritize what can be funded under its Six Year Program that spans from 2018 to 2023. Click here to see more information and to RSVP.
When: Wednesday, April 4; 7:00 – 8:30 PM

Where: Providence District Office & Community Center, 3001 Vaden Drive, Fairfax, VA



Pipelines in Virginia’s Energy Future

Attend this event, hosted by the Sierra Club Virginia Chapter, to learn about the growing movement to Stop the Pipelines–two proposed 42-inch diameter pipelines going through some of the most beautiful wilderness in Virginia. Come and learn how to support communities fighting back against pipeline infrastructure. RSVP here.
When: Wednesday, April 18; 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Where: Oakton Library, 10304 Lynnhaven Pl, Oakton, VA 22124

Global Ministries EarthKeepers Training 2018
Global Ministries EarthKeepers training equips United Methodist laity and clergy to develop or deepen environmental initiatives in their communities. Training topics will include eco-theology, intersectionality, strategies for social change, and United Methodist resources. Visit the event webpage to learn more about the event. Applications to attend the event are due April 26th.

 





Fossil Free Fairfax


350 Fairfax is asking the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors to adopt a resolution to set 100% renewable energy goals, oppose new fossil fuel infrastructure, and divest from fossil fuel companies. Learn more about their resolution and sign their petition that will be delivered to Chairwoman Bulova at an upcoming Board of Supervisors meeting.

   
Energy Weatherization Training

On Saturday, April 10th, Alfred Street Baptist Church’s “Go Green” Ministry co-sponsored an energy weatherization training along with FACS and Arlington’s Energy Masters. During the class, participants learned comprehensive energy efficiency training and how to perform simply upgrades to produce energy and water conservation. If you would like to host an event at your congregation please contact: Jill Barker (JMB@bettsandholt.com)

Save the Date – Sunday, June 10th
FACS is hosting an event for congregations to highlight what they have accomplished this year and to celebrate members, congregations, and local community members who are committed stewards of the environment.  More information and award nomination information will be released soon.







In Peace,
Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions

FACS