Our first recipient in 2009 for TFS’s solar grant was Arts for All, Inc. TFS was proud to install a 5.2 kW photovoltaic system, which is expected to save the organization over $27,000 in utility costs over 25 years. Arts for All, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that serves children with and without disabilities and adults with disabilities from the greater Tucson area. Their mission is to provide accessible education, training and experience in the arts to children, primarily those with special needs. In an effort to decrease its impact on the environment and become a more earth-friendly facility, Arts for All has taken numerous steps toward general sustainability. For example, to prevent further landfill waste, Arts for All utilizes reused and recycled materials for art projects, implements an organization-wide recycling program, and provides reusable water bottles and tote bags for customers.
Arts for All’s sustainability practices stretch beyond the walls of its facility. Native desert landscaping has been planted, requiring low water usage. Also, all employees and members are encouraged to utilize alternative transportation methods such as carpooling, bike riding, taking the bus, etc. For those individuals who are unable to take public transportation, due to disabilities, Arts for All uses its own hybrid vehicle to insure that carpooling is accessible for everyone in their organization.
The PV system that was donated by Technicians for Sustainability was not this non-profit’s first experience with solar. Earlier this year, a solar powered parking lot gate was installed in order to support the organization’s priority for long-term sustainability.
Lastly, TFS wants to congratulate Arts for All, once again, for the actions they have put forth for energy and resource conservation. We hope you enjoy your new PV system, and continue on your path to a sustainable future.