A program designed to serve out of school youth, 16-24 years of age. YouthBuild is a unique contextualized career pathway program designed to prepare young adults to take the GED®/High School Equivalency (HSE) exam or complete their high school diploma while gaining skills in Construction (Carpentry, Solar Installation, Welding), Transportation Distribution and Logistics (Warehousing, Forklift, CDL), Computer Careers or Certified Nurses Assistance (CNA).
YouthBuild functions as an AmeriCorps network affiliate member. The AmeriCorps component of YouthBuild provides students with leadership opportunities while earning money for education and developing an appreciation for citizenship through service learning activities within the community.
Program Phases
Phase 1: GED Prep/P.A.C.T. (Four to five months)
- Mental toughness
- Contextualized GED preparation and completion
- Construction / P.A.C.T.-Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate Training
- Construction Plus / I.T. or Healthcare
- Green construction
- Leadership training
- Career development
- Community service
- Earn while you learn
Phase 2: Bridge to College or Work (Four months)
- Career Pathway course work
- Specialized training
- Continue green construction
- Leadership development
- Community service
- Mentoring
- Subsidized employment / Grad Crew
- Supportive services to prepare for next steps
Phase 3: Follow up (Two to three months)
- Mentoring
- Job placement
- Financial aid and college advisement
- Intense case management
