Representatives for the SoulPower program updated the Michigan City Sustainability Commission on Oct. 9 about workforce training, advisory-board planning and outreach.

Donita Scully reported SoulPower has provided OSHA-10 safety and photovoltaic solar-related certifications to participants and is seeking grant funding to sustain the program. She said the effort has produced at least one documented graduate who obtained a job after completing training. Scully said the program is forming an advisory board to assist with research, grant development and community outreach; the advisory board will meet quarterly beginning in October.

Scully and commissioners said they have experienced difficulty finding grant funding and partners, and Scully asked residents and local partners to contact her if they are interested in serving on the advisory board. Commissioners acknowledged the local outcomes and encouraged additional outreach to partners and funders.