Green Rehab For Nicetown Homes And A 2nd Chance For HS Dropouts

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - One neighborhood community development corporation has taken the extra step in rehabbing houses - making them green and including young people looking for a second chance.

Where there was no roof, the home at 4557 North Uber Street has a new, 90-percent energy-efficient white roof. The home has a tankless hot water heater and carpet made out of recyclable plastics.

Majeedah Rashid, COO of the Nicetown Community Development Corporation, says now rehabbed homes in her community will also be green.

"We want to pay attention, moving forward in our development, making sure that we're sustainable and incorporate energy efficiency wherever we can."

The CDC also has a new partner, Youth Build, which gives high school dropouts a second chance by teaching them building skills. Byron Martin, 33, will move into the new home next week with his three young sons.

"I like to travel, go other places, but I always come back to Philly, I always come back home."

Reported by Karin Phillips, KYW Newsradio