Cherie Brooks – Empowering Communities Through Clean Energy
In the world of environmental and economic justice, there are visionary leaders who passionately strive to uplift historically marginalized communities and create a sustainable future. Cherie Brooks Wallace, the President/CEO and Visionary Co-Founder of Power52 Foundation, exemplifies this dedication and commitment. As a Baltimore local, Cherie has dedicated her life to bringing clean energy access and economic empowerment to underserved neighborhoods. Through the Power52 Foundation, she has established resiliency hubs, clean energy resources, education, training, and sustainable jobs, making a profound impact at the intersection of environmental and economic justice.
Background and Biography:
Cherie Brooks Wallace, a Baltimore local, has always been driven by a deep desire to create positive change within her community. Before her journey into the non-profit world, Cherie thrived as a Site Acquisition Manager in the wireless industry. Leading teams through complex build processes for major telecom projects, she honed her leadership skills and embraced challenges that expanded the company’s horizons.
However, it was in the world of environmental and economic justice that Cherie found her true calling. As the Visionary Co-Founder of Power52 Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit organization, she leverages her skills, experience, and passion to bring clean energy access and economic opportunities to historically marginalized communities. Cherie serves on the frontlines, working tirelessly to address the pressing issues at the intersection of environmental and economic justice.
Power52 Foundation’s Transformative Initiatives:
One of Cherie’s flagship accomplishments is the establishment and oversight of the Power52 Energy Institute. This groundbreaking institution stands as the first Clean Energy-focused Private Career School in the State of Maryland. The institute equips individuals from underserved communities with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the renewable energy sector, empowering them with new career opportunities and transforming lives.
Moreover, Cherie managed the development of POWER House, a community center managed by Living Classrooms. Under her visionary leadership, POWER House was transformed into the nation’s first solar-powered, community-based resiliency hub. Situated in East Baltimore, this hub serves a public housing community whose residents are commonly at the highest risk during emergencies. The POWER House stands as a shining example of clean energy technology benefiting the very communities that need it the most.
Impact and Legacy:
Cherie Brooks Wallace’s work with Power52 Foundation has had a transformative impact on the lives of individuals living in underserved communities. Through resiliency hubs, clean energy education, and sustainable job opportunities, she has provided a pathway for economic empowerment and environmental stewardship. Her dedication to serving her community and fostering a greener future will leave a lasting legacy of positive change for generations to come.
Conclusion:
Cherie’s journey as a visionary leader, environmental advocate, and champion of economic empowerment is a testament to the power of dedication and passion. As the President/CEO and Visionary Co-Founder of Power52 Foundation, she continues to inspire change, bringing clean energy access and economic opportunities to communities that need it the most. With her unwavering commitment to environmental and economic justice, Cherie serves as a beacon of hope, showing us all the transformative potential of clean energy and the lasting impact it can have on the lives of individuals and communities. As she stands as a finalist for the esteemed Dr. Espanola Jackson Energy Justice Award, we express our gratitude for her remarkable contributions.