Arkansas Interfaith Power and Light (IPL) is composed of individuals, congregations and groups who believe the sacred writings of all faith traditions ask us to care for creation, protect the planet and preserve fragile ecosystems that sustain life. Like the Good Samaritan story illustrates, sometimes it takes a “nobody” like you and me to act- to take action to correct a problem.
Ark. IPL views environmental issues from a non-partisan, theological perspective and is open to people of all faith traditions. Members make presentations to increase awareness levels of environmental issues, work on energy efficiency improvement projects at houses of worship and community buildings in low-income areas, and sign letters and call our representatives in Washington, D.C. regarding environmental legislation and ask others to do the same.
Our speaker is Sharmel Rousel. Scharmel Roussel was a founding member of Arkansas Interfaith Power and Light in 2009. Since 2012, she has served the organization as Outreach Coordinator as a member of Arkansas Energy Corps. In 2013, she was named executive director of Arkansas IPL. Scharmel also served on the Steering Committee for the “Ground for Hope” Conference in April, 2013 at St. Margaret Episcopal Church in Little Rock, with attendees from a variety of faith traditions, including Buddhist, Muslim and Hindu.
Scharmel earned a BA in English at Hendrix College, an MA in Communication at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, and certification in Information Technology, also at UALR. She worked for Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church as Communications Director for 17 years before joining Arkansas Energy Corps. During her service years for Arkansas Energy Corps, she has also provided part-time freelance work for Ferncliff Camp, a Presbyterian facility; Arkansas Natural Awakenings Magazine, a monthly publication; Arkansas Renewable Energy Association’s online newsletter; St. Paul United Methodist Church in Maumelle; and Eco Social Events, offering earth-friendly planning for social occasions.