We support the SoftShelter Program BTUBANK recognizes that a strong economy depends on developing renewable energy. Rising oil prices have devastated both U.S. and overseas economic growth. Part of the challenge to developing renewable energy projects is developing the labor pool of experienced technicians and construction teams, factories to create jobs and exports to help jump-start and sustain a national economy. Renewable energy is a relatively new field, experienced labor pools are thin and factories are straining to meet demand. BTUBANK has contracted with agencies such as the SoftShelter program and the KCK (Kids Computer Kamp) program to expand their occupational training labs, providing housing, medical attention, free computers labs to homeless mothers on the street with their children, at-risk youth and even free computers for senior centers. KCK has been providing classes and free equipment since 1983, working with firms such as the University of Phoenix, AC Delco, Lamont University, Wadsworth/Thomson Learning, a Prenice-Hall company. Labs focus on developing both computer skills for office duties and construction site skillsets, allowing graduates to enter apprenticeships and join field crews, pouring pads for wind turbines, constructing substations and operating generating stations. SoftShelter programs assist women with obtaining careers in banking, law, the medical and energy sectors. For more information on how to start a shelter or youth center in your community, contact the appropriate agency on this page.

ABOUT THE KIDS AT KCK When you need inexpensive, hard hitting classes, KCK been providing inexpensive (free), fast, fun and furious labs since 1983. Originally started in Santa Barbara and spreading to Orange County, Youth and Family agencies in the Bay Area have hosted KCK labs where kids learn PC skills in free labs and upon successfully completing the first class (about 3 days), take home a free PC they built with their own hands.