Why YouthBuild

YouthBuild believes that the goals, dreams, and aspirations of every young person are real. They are important, and they are achievable. Young people do not need fixing; they need champions who see them for who they really are, and who they can become. Every young person possesses the potential to become a community leader and should have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Who We Serve

Millions of young adults are too often defined only by their struggles with unemployment, poverty, and crime. Traditionally known as “disenfranchised,” “marginalized,” “disconnected,” and “at risk,” these young people aspire to improve their lives and communities. These young people are typically defined solely by their challenges, not by their potential. They urgently need – and aspire to earn – knowledge, training, and opportunities that lead to long-term professional and personal success.

Our Mission

With love and respect, we partner with opportunity youth to build the skillsets and mindsets that lead to lifelong learning, livelihood, and leadership.

Our Vision

YouthBuild strives to create a world where all young people are seen for their potential, and power to transform themselves and their communities.

Our Values

YouthBuild’s mission and strategy are informed by core values that help students develop the skills they need not only to succeed in the workplace, but to thrive in their communities.

Love

We respect and value every individual, and we welcome them with open arms and open minds.

Accountability

We speak and act with integrity. We treat ourselves and others with respect.

Collaboration

We work together to achieve common goals, and we contribute to a supportive community.

Diversity

We draw knowledge, strength, and inspiration from the full human community.

Leadership

We take to heart our responsibility to realize our full potential, and to help others recognize theirs.

Our Core Elements

No two YouthBuild programs are exactly alike. Our programs vary according to local community needs, funding, and partnerships. Each and every YouthBuild program, however, is built on the five core elements of our model — plus love:

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Latest News

Chi Kim and Ray Mills Elected to YouthBuild USA Board of Directors

Education leader Chi Kim and entrepreneur Ray Mills have been elected to the Board of Directors for YouthBuild USA, a global nonprofit championing opportunity youth — young adults between the ages of 16 and 24 who are neither in school nor employed — as they earn the knowledge, training and opportunities that lead to long-term professional and personal success.