Action For Nature
2009 International Young Eco-Hero Award
Honorable Mention: 13-16 years age category

In recognition of the accomplishment of Matthew Erickson whose personal action has improved the environment and has provided inspiration to others to protect our planet.

HelpLight NJ Receives an Environmental Award for Lending a Helping Hand in New Jersey

(New York, N.Y.) Thousands of low income households in New Jersey received a helping hand in lowering their electric bills thanks to this year’s ENERGY STAR award winner, HelpLight NJ. The volunteer organization raised money to purchase and distribute 60,000 compact fluorescent light (CFLs) bulbs to needy families and seniors. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) have partnered to honor HelpLight NJ with the 2009 Regional ENERGY STAR Award for Excellence in Affordable Housing. HelpLight NJ, founded by three high school students, provided 10,000 families with six CFLs each, for a total estimated energy cost savings of $4 million.

“We applaud HelpLight NJ on the fantastic job it is doing to facilitate energy savings and minimize utility costs for families that can use the extra help,” said George Pavlou, Acting Regional Administrator for EPA Region 2. “HelpLight NJ stands as a model of the potential young people have in making beneficial changes in the environment and their local community.”

2008 New Jersey Clean Energy Leadership Award Nominee
Next Generation of Clean Energy Business Leaders – Honorable Mention

New Jersey Board of Public Utilities President Jeanne M. Fox presents HelpLight NJ with the 2008 New Jersey Clean Energy Leader Honorable Mention award.

City Of Perth Amboy: Mayors Proclamation

WHEREAS, Matthew Erickson of Mater Dei High School helped to form HELPLIGHTNJ to help raise money to buy energy saving light bulbs for distribution to needy families and

WHEREAS, this organization has distributed over 1,000 energy saving light bulbs to needy families in New Jersey since November of 2007; and

WHEREAS, with the support of the New Jersey Clean Energy Program, over 60,000 energy saving light bulbs will be distributed by the end of 2008; and

WHEREAS, he has shown that everyone can make a difference in helping the environment.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Wilda Diaz, Mayor of the City of Perth Amboy, do hereby take great pleasure in recognizing the outstanding contributions of Matthew Erickson in promoting a healthy environment for all.

Hon. Wilda Diaz, Mayor

New Jersey Recognizes 2008 Clean Energy Leaders

The fourth annual New Jersey Clean Energy Leadership Awards highlight the way in which New Jersey’s support of clean energy investment encourages entities to develop projects that reduce greenhouse gases, increase the use of renewable energy and energy efficiency, and strengthen the growing green economy in New Jersey. Through its Clean Energy Program, which has provided nearly $900 million dollars since its inception to businesses, residents and municipalities, New Jersey has emerged as a national leader and one of the fastest growing clean energy markets in the country.

Up and Coming Clean Energy Leaders of the Year :
HelpLightNJ ( Redbank , NJ )