YouthBuild’s New Recipients Off and Running

Who is the U.S. recruiting?  Do your recruiting practices mirror the government’s?  Or are they quite different?

In an attempt to help young people have more possibilities at a young age, the U.S. department has announced a list of recipients for grants to help employ and train young workers.  The Department of Labor announced an award of $30,696,643 for its YouthBuild programs.  Funds will be shared among 31 programs that prepare out-of-school youth across the United States for careers through hands-on construction training, and high school completion and General Educational Development programs.

“YouthBuild is a triple win for the young people who participate in the program, the local communities that benefit from their efforts and our nation as a whole,” said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis.  “YouthBuild helps young people who might otherwise slip through the cracks gain the educational and occupational skills that are necessary for a successful future.  At the same time, these youngsters make valuable contributions to their neighborhoods through community service projects and the construction or renovation of affordable housing.”

Although citizens are often looking for even larger numbers of success stories when reviewing a program, the Labor Department seems to take pride in its success since 2006. The participants in the program have needed a lot of special attention, as their outside resources have been limited.  Many participants have been in the juvenile justice system, are aging out of foster care, or have dropped out of high school.  Since YouthBuild began awarding its first grants in 2007, more than 13,000 young people have participated in programs in 44 states and the District of Columbia.

In addition to receiving academic and occupational skills training, young people develop leadership skills and participate in community service opportunities.

List of YouthBuild Grantees and Award Amounts