Penquis recognized for sustainable business practices
Penquis has been recognized as a NeighborWorks Green Organization for its comprehensive commitment to sustainable operations. To achieve this designation, Penquis was required to demonstrate adherence to a set of green business practices across its operations and all of its program areas.
This is the fourth consecutive year that NeighborWorks America has recognized member organizations for their efforts to create healthier, energy-efficient environments for homeowners, renters, community residents and employees. To date, 81 NeighborWorks organizations have achieved this designation.
Penquis, which assists individuals and families in preventing, reducing or eliminating poverty in their lives, is committed to green practices in many aspects of its operation. All single-family and multi-family units constructed in the past two years comply with the MaineHousing Green Program. Examples of Green Program practices include installing only ENERGY STAR appliances, ensuring air quality to control moisture and prevent mold, using proper insulation, including windows and doors that meet Northern New England housing standards, and installing low flow shower heads and reduced water flow flush toilets for water conservation.
In addition, Penquis offers second mortgages for green rehabilitation of homes, such as energy efficient heating/cooling systems and weatherization or air quality improvements. It also offers a Home Buyer Education Course for first-time homeowners, and a new addition to the curriculum includes green homes and healthy living concepts for those taking the class.
Penquis incorporates green practices within everyday operations by recycling paper, bottles and cans, having auto shut off features to computers, using video conferencing to reduce employee travel, and donating or ensuring proper recycling of old computer equipment.
“Penquis is honored to receive this designation from NeighborWorks America in the Northeast Region. We have worked diligently to advance green policies and practices and will continue to. We recognize the significance of these practices to our environment and for organizational sustainability,” stated CEO and President Kara Hay.
“Penquis is helping to improve people’s health and well-being,” said NeighborWorks America CEO Paul Weech. “Penquis is showing how green business practices make economic sense.”
The 81 NeighborWorks Green Organizations together own more than 59,019 affordable apartments and have built or rehabilitated more than 3,164 green rental and for-sale homes in the past two years. Through the organization’s’ participation in this program, 5,515 employees are experiencing a healthier, greener working environment. Last year, they educated more than 14,885 households seeking to purchase or owning a home on the core elements of healthy and sustainable homes.