Hamilton Herald Masthead

Editorial


Front Page - Friday, December 11, 2015

Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise recognized as NeighborWorks Green Organization




Martina Guilfoil, president and CEO of Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise. - (Photo provided)

NeighborWorks America has recognized Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise (CNE) as a NeighborWorks Green Organization for its commitment to sustainable operations. To achieve this designation, CNE 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 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 – or nearly one-third of the network – have achieved this designation.

As one of the first organizations to use the Better Built standard from green|spaces, CNE has always been committed to building green.

“Becoming a green organization through NeighborWorks America solidifies our approach to business and building practices,” said Martina Guilfoil, president and CEO of CNE.

CNE also offers low interest loans to Chattanooga residents to help green their homes. Repairs include HVAC repair or replacements, lead paint abatement, electrical and plumbing repairs, and more. For more information, call 423-756-6201, or log on to www.cneinc.org.

“Our home improvement program has helped over 3,200 Chattanoogans improve their homes,” said Guilfoil. “Without this program, many homeowners would not be warm this winter.”

NeighborWorks America supports a network of more than 240 nonprofits, located in every state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.

“CNE is helping to improve people’s health and well-being,” said NeighborWorks America CEO Paul Weech. “It’s 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. 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.

For more information on the green designation, and to see the list of designees, go to NeighborWorks.org/Green.

Source: CNE and NeighborWorks America