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.
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.
With love and respect, we partner with opportunity youth to build the skillsets and mindsets that lead to lifelong learning, livelihood, and leadership.
YouthBuild strives to create a world where all young people are seen for their potential, and power to transform themselves and their communities.
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.
We respect and value every individual, and we welcome them with open arms and open minds.
We draw knowledge, strength, and inspiration from the full human experience.
We work together to achieve common goals, and we contribute to a supportive community.
No two YouthBuild programs are exactly alike. Locally, programs may vary in scope, focus and duration, according to local community contexts and needs, funding, and partnerships. Every YouthBuild program, however, operates at the nexus of three spheres: positive youth development, education, and workforce readiness and professional credentials.
Every YouthBuild program is built on a foundation of love and the five core elements of our comprehensive model that has been proven over decades to transform the lives of young people:
Seven YouthBuild program leaders recognized for their passion and dedication to the young people they serve
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