[strat-i-jee]: a plan, method, or series of maneuvers or stratagems for obtaining a specific goal or result: a strategy for getting ahead in the world.

Households of modest means + energy & $$$ savings solutions + education = reduced green house gases, reduced energy bills, and healthier air!

The most significant environmental challenge faced by the planet is climate change. And one of the largest contributors is wasteful energy consumption. One of the easiest ways to reduce energy consumption is to change from incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent light bulbs. A compact fluorescent light bulb (CFL) uses 75% less energy than an incandescent bulb and lasts 10 times longer and that saves money on a home’s energy bills. More than $45 savings is typical over the life of the bulb.

CFLs usually cost more than incandescent bulbs so households with limited income typically don’t buy them. By providing free CFLs along with education on the economic and environmental benefits of using these “clean bulbs”, households can save $10 to $15 each month on their electricity bills and become more aware of ways help save the environment.

Our Program

[proh-gram, -gruhm]: Connecting the Dots

Let’s Raise a Million connects the dots in the communities at greatest risk to climate change impacts. In 2009, Let’s Raise a Million will complete its pilot program that involves students in Atlanta, GA (Agnes Scott, Clark-Atlanta, Emory, Georgia Tech, Georgia State, Morehouse and Spelman) and Grambling, LA (Grambling) at work to install CFLs and educate residents of limited income in neighborhoods surrounding the campuses.

In teams of four, Let’s Raise a Million student-volunteers canvass an assigned neighborhood by going door to door to discuss the benefits of using CFLs, and change every incandescent light bulb that the resident shows the team. Now, the proven and scalable model is preparing to launch on other campuses across the country.