Community Energy Project is proud to provide a variety of direct, in-homes services and educational workshops, and participate in important advocacy work. Behind all of these vital efforts is a team of vibrant, multifaceted, and hardworking individuals. We are excited to introduce the CEP Staff Spotlight, a series dedicated to the people who make everything we do possible. Today’s spotlight shines on CEP’s Communications & Development Director, Cameo Konfrst.

“To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

1. Describe your role at CEP and what makes you passionate about your position.

My role at CEP is to raise. Raise awareness towards the good work CEP does within our community and raise funds to fulfill our mission. Believing in the core mission of CEP and hearing client stories continues to inspire my passion for my position.

2. Describe your work/relevant personal background and how this empowers you at CEP.

My background spans the nonprofit and for-profit worlds combining my love of psychology, marketing, and development. It is empowering to me to be able to combine a variety of skill-sets and interests while working at CEP.

3. Describe the program/department you run and why it is important to CEP/the community you serve.

Running the development and communications departments are two core parts to the functionality of CEP. They feed the programmatic and administration side of things to keep the wheels turning.

4. What is a problem that the Portland community faces and how is your team addressing the issue?

An aging housing stock and the growing cost of repairs plagues Portland just like many larger cities. Tackling both the needs of homeowners and renters through repairs, education, skill sharing, and advocacy allows us to holistically approach this problem.

5. What makes CEP unique in addressing climate change?

Unlike a lot of other organizations that focus on environmental sustainability or social justice, CEP positions itself within that intersection and that is where it fights climate change.

6. If you had to pick one meal to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be? / What is a hidden talent or unique hobby you have?

I am a huge sushi fan. I also love my aunt’s pozole. My unique hobby is formulating organic care products for plants.