For Immediate Release: June 5, 2025
Contact: Ken Spence, ken.spence@nextgenpolicy.org 

SACRAMENTO – NextGen Policy, a California-based, nonprofit organization fighting for justice-centered policies and programs, today announced that the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD), the sixth-largest, community-owned electric service provider in the country, granted it a $63,000 award through its Shine program. The funding advances NextGen’s efforts to provide justice-impacted young adults with the skills and support needed to obtain quality jobs.

SMUD’s Shine program supports nonprofits that engage key communities across their service area in helping to transition to a clean energy future. This year’s cohort of Shine awardees will deliver projects that increase access to and support for: clean energy science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education; environmental justice and equity; zero carbon workforce development; habitat restoration; increased tree canopy; energy efficiency and electrification; and youth training and job readiness for under-resourced community members.

With its award funds, NextGen Policy and its strategic partner, Clover Agency, are ensuring over 100 participants of its EDD Opportunity Young Adult (OYA) Career Pathway Program have access to stipends for workforce readiness and training, career coaching, and supportive services. These stipends are crucial for OYA program participants as they will reduce the economic barriers that often arise when reentering into the workforce. This support will help participants concentrate on acquiring new skills, securing employment, and improving their chances of long-term self-sufficiency.

“We’re incredibly grateful to receive this support from SMUD’s Shine program. These funds are more than just an award, they represent an investment in the futures of young adults in the Sacramento region who deserve a second chance and a clear pathway to career opportunities,” said Dr. Ken Spence, Senior Policy Advisor, NextGen Policy. “We look forward to expanding our Opportunity Young Adult Career Pathway Program and continuing to work alongside community partners and local businesses to create lasting, positive change.”

This news is extremely timely; a report from North Carolina State University found that within the first year of release, about 37% of formerly incarcerated individuals are able to find employment nationally. “There is a critical need for programs that facilitate reintegration into the workforce, and the SMUD Shine award helps bridge that gap by offering resources that foster stability and advancement,” said Dr. Paul De La Cerda, Principal and Program Manager at Clover Agency.

“SMUD’s vision for a clean energy future includes helping transform the communities we serve,” said Jose Bodipo-Memba, SMUD Chief Diversity Officer. “SMUD’s Shine program harnesses the determination and vision of local nonprofits—like Next Gen Policy, in making meaningful change that will provide equitable opportunities so everyone can benefit for generations to come.”

 

About NextGen Policy

NextGen Policy is a nonprofit advocacy organization that breaks down barriers and rebalances power in the State Capitol on behalf of all Californians.

About Clover Agency

The Clover Agency is a grant management consultancy with a simple mission: that everyone, regardless of their background, native language, culture, sexual orientation, age, or race, deserves an equal opportunity to embark on a fulfilling career journey. Our commitment to this belief serves as the cornerstone of our program model, designed to empower learners of all ages. We are dedicated to helping all students navigate the transitions and milestones that lead to successful, meaningful careers, fostering a more inclusive and vibrant economy for all. For more information, visit https://cloveragencyinc.com/.

About SMUD

As the nation’s sixth-largest, community-owned, not-for-profit electric service provider, SMUD has been providing low-cost, reliable electricity to Sacramento County for more than 75 years. SMUD is a recognized industry leader and award winner for its innovative energy efficiency programs, renewable power technologies and for its sustainable solutions for a healthier environment. In 2023, SMUD’s power supply was, on average, 78 percent carbon free, and SMUD has a goal to reach zero carbon in its electricity production by 2030. SMUD’s rates and customer bills are consistently among the lowest in California, and are today, on average, more than 50 percent lower than its neighboring investor-owned utility. For more information on SMUD’s Zero Carbon Plan and its customer programs, visit smud.org.

###