“I want accessible resources for seniors. Ones that don’t require them to jump through hoops and break through barriers to get information. It’s important to be present in the places where they participate in activities with their city,” shared Victoria Pacheco, the Community Development Officer at GRID IE and organizer of the Energy Efficiency Workshop.
In November 2025, the Fontana Senior Center partnered with GRID IE to host an Energy Efficiency Workshop for its local senior community. Participants quickly recognized GRID’s team, which had attended previous events hosted by the center.
“Being here consistently allows members of the Fontana Senior Center to have a better understanding of who GRID is. They get to familiarize themselves at a pace that’s comfortable to them, without anyone approaching their homes.” shared Victoria
The workshop was located beside the center’s main dining area, where community members were able to grab a bite with friends and family, speak to GRID IE’s Outreach Team, and discover available programs offered through the City of Fontana, such as GRID IE’s no-cost solar and SCE’s discounted rate programs. Representatives from The Energy Coalition, a local partner of GRID IE, also attended and shared information about regional rebates on electric heat pumps.
Residents who were especially interested in energy efficiency received personalized advice during one-on-one sessions with GRID IE’s knowledgeable Outreach Team, where they could sit down, enjoy light refreshments, and receive free energy-saving light bulbs for their home as their questions were answered.
“Over 60% of our program’s participants are part of the senior demographic, so being intentional by meeting seniors where they’re at is important,” said Victoria, who is dedicated to fostering trust and connecting seniors to reliable resources.