“I feel very happy and blessed to have the GRID team and the Bank of America crew out here installing solar on my home,” shared Ontario homeowner Vicente Perez. “Lowering my electric bill was the biggest goal, and I’m proud that we’re also reducing our family’s footprint in the community.”
On October 15, 2025, Bank of America volunteers joined GRID Alternatives Inland Empire at the Perez family home in Ontario, California, for a Corporate Volunteer Workday supporting GRID IE’s no-cost residential solar program. Through this team-building volunteer experience, Bank of America employees worked side by side with GRID IE’s Construction Team to help install a solar system that will provide long-term environmental and economic benefits for the Perez family.
For many of the volunteers, the day offered a hands-on introduction to solar installation and an opportunity to directly support a local household. Jorge Lopez, a Financial Solutions Advisor with Bank of America, shared that while he already has solar on his own home, participating in the installation process was a new and meaningful experience.
Bank of America Volunteers installing Solar
“I’ve always known how solar works, but being involved in the actual installation is neat,” said Jorge. “Seeing the panels up close surprised me. They’re lighter than I expected. More than anything, it feels good to help a family get solar installed and to know you’re making a difference.”
Jorge encouraged others to volunteer whenever possible, emphasizing the value of showing up with an open mind and being willing to help with any task, big or small. He shared that volunteer experiences like this one offer a strong sense of accomplishment and an opportunity to give back in a tangible way.
Veza Kirby, also a Financial Solutions Advisor with Bank of America, described the day as both educational and rewarding. For Veza, stepping onto a construction site for the first time highlighted the importance of safety and teamwork.
“The safety protocols we reviewed with GRID IE’s team really stood out to me,” Veza shared. “I’ve never been on a construction site before, and now I understand how critical safety is to the work being done.”
Veza also reflected on the value of volunteering alongside colleagues who normally work in different locations. Spending the day together outdoors, learning new skills, and contributing to a project with a direct community impact made the experience especially meaningful.
“It’s pretty special to be here with my team and to do something that’s beneficial for the community and for this household,” she said. “If you have the time and are interested in learning how solar is installed, this is a great opportunity to be part of something bigger.”
Vincente, homeowner, with the Bank of America volunteers and GRID IE staff.
With guidance from GRID IE’s experienced Construction Team, Bank of America volunteers assisted with on-site tasks that support the solar installation process, gaining insight into how residential systems are safely and effectively installed. The Corporate Volunteer Workday not only helped move the project forward but also supported GRID IE’s mission by funding and advancing access to clean energy in local neighborhoods.
The 4.9 kilowatt solar system installed at the Perez family home is expected to deliver significant long-term benefits. Over the life of the system, the family is projected to save approximately $8,250 on energy bills while reducing carbon emissions by an estimated 31 tons. This impact is equivalent to taking six cars off the road or planting 724 trees.
GRID Alternatives Inland Empire extends its sincere thanks to the Bank of America volunteers whose time, energy, and support helped make this installation possible. Partnerships like these demonstrate the power of corporate engagement in creating lasting change for families and communities across the Inland Empire.