This student-led initiative, Illini Lights Out, was phenomenally successful in.Fall 2017, and seeks to expand for Fall 2018. In an Illini Lights Out event, pairs or small teams of volunteer students audit assigned buildings and turn off non-essential lights in classrooms/hallways/bathrooms not in use. Volunteers meet at a designated location to sign in, review safety protocols and receive their tally sheets. Students use these sheets to indicate any empty rooms where they turned off lights, empty rooms where lights were on but they could not get inside, and the number of bulbs and fixtures in these rooms. After the audit is complete, students return all forms to designated staff and are then eligible for a complimentary snack in exchange for their assistance. The event strives to reduce energy and inspire students to make small sustainable behavioral changes in their routines. The allocated funding will go towards event supplies and outreach materials. This proposal directly funds:
1. Highly visible safety wear
2. Outreach materials
3. Event supplies, including light refreshments and clipboards