California launches 'Green Corp' for jobs training

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger this week launched a new California Green Corps to help at-risk young adults find green-collar jobs.

The programme will begin with a 20-month pilot targeting 1,000 at-risk Californians between the ages of 16 and 24. A public-private initiative, the Green Corps will provide green job training, stipends, educational requirements and community service.

“President Obama and I share similar priorities right now when it comes to helping the economy rebound and creating a greener California and America,” Schwarzenegger said. “In California we will utilise federal economic stimulus funds and public-private partnerships to help stimulate our economy while initiating actions to improve our environment. Green jobs are exactly what our economy and environment need right now — and the California Green Corps targets that need while helping at-risk young adults realize a brighter future.”

The startup programme is being financed with $10 million in federal economic stimulus funding and $10 from public-private partnerships.