Peoria Standard

PeoriaCorps held a ceremony on Friday to recognize four graduates from its green infrastructure program. The event marked the completion of the 12th cohort since the program began in October 2017.

The graduating AmeriCorps members—Montel Clark, Alonzo Hemphill, Carl Parker, and Elijah Porter—completed their term of service with PeoriaCorps. During their time in the program, they participated in career exploration and skill-building activities. They earned certifications including OSHA 10 for General Industry and CPR First Aid. Each member completed 3,600 hours of service.

The PeoriaCorps Program was launched to provide unemployed individuals aged 18 and older with hands-on training in environmental stewardship and green landscaping solutions. Participants receive both field experience and classroom instruction focused on green infrastructure maintenance as well as employability skills.

Over the past six months, this cohort worked on projects such as planting trees, harvesting native plants, and maintaining green infrastructure installations throughout Peoria.

Applications are now open for the next group of participants. Those interested can apply through the City of Peoria website to earn an education award, receive a stipend, and work toward industry-recognized credentials.

For more information about PeoriaCorps or to contact Program Director Amanda Wilson, individuals can call (309) 494-8843 or email her directly.