YouthBuild

YouthBuild is a federally and privately funded program operated at over 250 organizations nationwide, serving over 10,000 young people each year. The program provides construction-related training and may also provide training in other in-demand industries, along with educational services, counseling, and leadership-development opportunities, to low-income, out-of-school young people ages 16 to 24. Most young people who make it through Mental Toughness Orientation enroll in YouthBuild, are offered the program's services, and participate for 6 to 12 months. New participants typically begin the program in a group with other enrollees, and that group alternates weekly or every few weeks between a focus on education and a focus on vocational training. The program includes educational services such as instruction in basic skills, remedial education, and alternative education leading to a high school diploma or GED; vocational training, typically construction training in which participants rehabilitate or build housing for low-income people; youth-development services, including leadership training and community service; and supportive services and transition services including counseling, case management, life-skills training, workforce preparation, follow-up services for one year, stipends for participation, and other forms of support.