Press Room

Valley CAN Continues its Clean Air Efforts

Organization Approves $46,000 Grant to Clean Air Education Program

(Fresno, Calif—September 23, 2005) – Valley CAN (Clean Air Now), a non-profit organization committed to promoting cleaner air throughout the San Joaquin Valley, held its quarterly board meeting Thursday, September 15, at The Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce.

"Valley CAN will continue its efforts to support Valley businesses and community organizations that are proactively implementing clean air practices," said Octavia Diener, Valley CAN president. "Although there has been improvement in the Valley’s air quality, we understand there is still work to be done and Valley CAN wants to keep that momentum going to create long-lasting improvements."

Over the past three years, Valley CAN’s has granted more than $750,000 to a variety of businesses, associations and educational institutions. At Thursday’s meeting, Board members approved a $46,000 grant application submitted by Enterprise for Education for their Clean Air Challenge Program, which will provide seventh through twelfth grade Valley science teachers with air-quality curriculum that meets California state science standards.

"The funding provided by Valley CAN has been a key factor in the success of the program," said Glen Craig, Publisher of the Clean Air Challenge Program. "Valley CAN’s support has opened doors for other grant opportunities, including from the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD) and possible State funding."

With a previous $40,000 grant from Valley CAN, the Clean Air Challenge Program has provided air quality curriculum and training to more than 50 middle and high school science teachers in the San Joaquin Valley, who will reach over 5,500 students. The additional bridge funding provided by Valley CAN and the SJVAPCD will help train new teachers, refresh last year’s participants and provide new materials.

Valley CAN is committed to supporting programs that lead to tangible changes in the immediate future. "We know there is much work left to do, but we are making a difference," said Paul Betancourt, Valley CAN vice president. "If you are searching for pilot funding to launch a clean air program, I strongly encourage you to contact Valley CAN and apply for a grant."

For more information about Valley CAN please visit www.valley-can.org.