YouthBuild is a federal grant funded program through the Department of Labor that serves young adults in Jefferson & Marion Counties. The program focuses on providing academic training, job skill development, leadership development & community service.
Eligibility:
YouthBuild participants are typically low income at-risk high school drop-outs between the ages of 17-24. YouthBuild will assess potential participants from Jefferson & Marion Counties and the surrounding counties.
The Jefferson County site is located in Mt. Vernon and the Marion County site is located in Centralia. Participants are responsible for their transportation to and from the YouthBuild site.
Overview:
YouthBuild participants spend 6 to 18 months in the program, dividing their time between the construction site and GED classes. - Education - young adults participate in GED (General Equivalency Diploma) classes that are taught by certified teachers. Classes are small, allowing one-on-one attention to students.
- Job Skill Development - participants learn construction trade skills through hands-on instruction. During the program participants will rehabilitate a home and will assist Habitat for Humanity in the construction of a new home.
- Leadership Development - Participants learn to advocate for issues that concern them and their communities, and to take responsibility for themselves and their families. Participants share in the governance of their own program through an elected peer policy committee.
Community Service - "Giving back" to the community is strongly encouraged, as participants are involved in various community service projects. - Counseling - a case manager is available to all participants to offer counseling or referrals to address a variety of issues that a participant might be facing. This assistance can include pursuing college / vocational school and employment opportunities.
For more information or to enroll in YouthBuild, contact Rick Marlow, Program Manager at (618) 242-6723 or rickm@umchome.org.