At GRID Alternatives Greater Los Angeles (GRID GLA), we believe that empowering youth with green-energy education and financial know-how is essential to building sustainable communities. This shared vision brought us together with Intuit. After two years of planning, pitch decks, and perseverance, our Solar Futures partnership has officially taken flight - marking the beginning of a new chapter in youth engagement and climate education.
How It All Started
Momentum began when our Director of Workforce Development, Shameka Dixon, and former Development Manager, Melissa Goldman, approached Charli Reed at Intuit with a powerful question: How can we inspire young minds for a future in sustainability?
Their shared passion sparked a unique collaboration focused on equity, opportunity, and hands-on learning. Through months of brainstorming, refining ideas, and aligning missions, the team co-developed a curriculum that blends clean energy education with practical financial skills. The vision became reality with funded proposals and the eventual launch of the Solar Futures GLA cohort, supported by Intuit’s financial education initiative for teens.
Year One: A Foundation of Hope
Last year, we completed our inaugural program, training 40 curious and motivated students from Centinela Valley Union High School District. Through hands-on solar workshops and classroom sessions, these young people gained:
- CPR & OSHA 10 certifications
- Introductory experience in solar tech
- Fundamental lessons in financial literacy
Designed by Shameka Dixon and enhanced by Domi Piturro, the curriculum framed solar energy within a broader story of community empowerment and personal growth.
“This isn’t just about panels—it’s about possibility,” said one student.
Looking Ahead: Year Two & Beyond
The excitement continues: Intuit has renewed support for Year Two, launching this fall. With their continued backing, we’ll reach new schools and expand our curriculum, bringing solar knowledge and life readiness to more young leaders.
Students aren’t just envisioning futures in solar or engineering, they’re also learning college pathways, exploring financial independence, and engaging parents through dedicated family events. Many will go on to IBT200 or college programs in sustainability and engineering.
Integration at the Intuit Dome Event
Intuit’s commitment goes beyond funding. This year, the Solar Futures cohort joined a high school-led financial literacy event at Intuit Dome, where they:
- Shared their solar-learning journey alongside Intuit volunteers
- Combined financial and renewable-energy education with hands-on activities
This unique experience is a testament to what’s possible when intangible passions, like sustainability and financial empowerment, become tangible happenings.
“We’re thrilled to ensure young people are prepared for careers in the booming green economy—and supported in their financial growth,”
Shameka Dixon, Director of Workforce Development, GRID GLA
Together with Intuit and local students, we are building a generation ready to lead, equipped by knowledge, fueled by purpose, and ready to power a cleaner, fairer tomorrow.
--------------------------------------------
Contact us to learn more
To support our work: Shop our Store or Donate
Keep up with GRID GLA on a daily basis.
Sign up for our Newsletter
Follow us on Instagram
Follow us on Facebook