Conduit ITC LightPress Release Contact: Justin Rothshank 412-363-4550 x 22 justin@unionproject.org November 8, 2006 For Immediate Release Union Project Says Goodbye to Duane Hessler The Union Project will be saying goodbye to Facilities Manager, Volunteer Coordinator, and Stained Glass Installer extraordinaire, Duane Hessler, at the end of the month. Duane started his work at the Union Project in early 2005 as a volunteer through Pittsburgh Singles Volunteer Network, and quickly jumped on board to assist long term in the renovation of the Union Project facility. Duane’s energy and creative expertise in building projects has been an enormous boost to the growth of the Union Project’s volunteer program. Duane has helped to coordinate the work of over 1,000 volunteers and more than 7,000 hours of volunteer work since he started at Union Project last year. He has led the exterior landscaping, great hall and basement renovations at the Union Project. Duane is resigning his position with Union Project to take on a new position with Help For Families in New Orleans, Louisiana. Duane will be taking what he has learned at Union Project, and his expertise in leading large groups of unskilled volunteers to help rebuild the city of New Orleans as the Director of Community Development for Help For Families. With the completion of the Union Project construction at hand, the Union Project is working to expand volunteer activities into the broader community. Already, the Union Project has engaged volunteers in community development efforts in Highland Park, and has plans to connect volunteers to an effort to rehabilitate eight houses for low-income families in East Liberty in 2007. As well, the potential for taking on additional properties and projects like the Union Project is being explored. Union Project patrons interested in booking volunteer projects are still encouraged to do so. All inquiries may be directed to Associate Director Justin Rothshank, Justin@unionproject.org, 412-363-4550 x 22, or may continue to email volunteer@unionproject.org. Volunteers can also sign up for particular service areas on the Union Project website. As a result of Duane’s resignation Union Project has posted a new job opportunity on our website, www.unionproject.org/About_Us/jobs. Anyone interested in a possible job opportunity should check out the website, or email info@unionproject.org. The Union Project is a non-profit organization that provides neighborhood space to connect, create, and celebrate. As key to meeting its mission and focusing on sustainability, the Union Project has initiated several social enterprises that employ local at-risk youth and low-income individuals. More information about the Union Project, space rental, Union Station Cafe or upcoming events can be found at www.unionproject.org.