What is the GALA Green Alliance Leadership Training Program? The GALA program is a 16-week training initiative aimed at providing South Ward residents with the skills and opportunities to pursue careers in the green economy. It includes a comprehensive 4-week training component focused on environmentally sustainable industries.

What is a green job?  Examples of green jobs include installing solar panels or shingles which converts sunlight into electrical energy, creating cool roofs which are designed to reflect sunlight and absorb less solar energy, which in turn lowers a home’s internal temperature, planting and caring for trees throughout the city which increases the tree canopy in the South Ward, lowering temperatures and reducing health effects such as asthma.

What does it mean to have green jobs in the South Ward?  Parts of the South Ward have been heavily burdened by environmental impacts such as pollution from the ports, lack of trees which create heat islands and flooding from antiquated storm water drainage systems.  The repair of these environmental harms are considered green jobs.  

Who can apply for the program? The program is open to South Ward residents aged 17 and over.  It adopts a low barrier to entry model.   No prior experience is required, and we encourage applications from women with children and young people seeking high-paying green jobs.

What kind of training does GALA offer? GALA offers hands-on training, workshops, and support services. Participants will gain valuable skills and certifications in green job sectors, which will enhance their employability.  At the end of the GALA training, fellows would have been exposed to renewable energy sources: solar, wind, battery…etc and green infrastructure solutions.

What support services are available to participants? CHCA provides wrap-around support services, including childcare assistance. PEP offers coaching and mentoring throughout the program. NWDB assists with job placements in green jobs or apprenticeships.

How do I apply for the program? To apply, contact Patricia Canning at gala@southwardea.com for more information on the application process, important dates, and required documents.

How many spots are available in the program? There are 120 limited spots available. We encourage interested residents to apply as soon as possible to secure their place in the program.  There are 4 cohorts with 30 students in each cohort.  Cohorts start in September, February 2025, July 2025 and January 2026.  

What is the start date for the September cohort?  The September cohort starts on Tuesday, September 24, 2024.

What is the time commitment for this program?  GALA classes will meet starting on Tuesday, Sep 24, 2024 for 4 weeks, every Tuesday evening and Thursday evening from 6:00-8:00p and then on Saturday mornings from 10:00 - 2:00p.  Child care and transportation will be provided as needed.

What are the goals of the GALA program? The main objectives of the GALA program are to empower South Ward residents, provide green job skills, and foster community resilience by creating pathways to economic stability through sustainable careers.

Who are the partners involved in the GALA program? The GALA program is a collaborative initiative by the South Ward Environmental Alliance (SWEA), Clinton Hill Community Action (CHCA), Parents Engaging Parents (PEP), and the Newark Workforce Development Board (NWDB), with funding from the NJ DEP.

What are the benefits of participating in the GALA program? Participants will receive hands-on training, workshops, certifications, and support services that prepare them for careers in the green economy. The program also provides job placement assistance and mentoring to help overcome barriers to employment.

How can I get more information about the GALA program? For more information, please contact Patricia Canning at gala@southwardea.com or visit our website to learn more about the program and how to apply