With the goal of connecting alumni throughout the world, YouthBuild USA has launched the YouthBuild Alumni Network (YBAN), an exclusive, one-stop online resource where members can share updates, collaborate, and engage regularly with love and intention.
Developed with generous support from the Citi Foundation, the YBAN is fully integrated with existing social networks. YouthBuild alumni and program staff who work with alumni are encouraged to register here.
“Our alumni help make the YouthBuild movement as extensive and vibrant as it is,” said Kate Henneberry, Senior Manager of Alumni Relations for YouthBuild USA. “We know their value, and we know the potential this network holds, professionally and personally. It only made sense for us to build a virtual space for collaboration, reminiscence, and engagement with fellow alumni.”
The YBAN provides users with:
• An opt-in directory of alumni, allowing users to connect directly with peers;
• A running feed of alumni updates, content, photos, and conversations;
• Group forums for in-depth conversation; and
• Pop-up events, coffee meetings, webinars hosted by subject matter experts within our networks, and other organic engagement opportunities created for alumni, by alumni.
“When young people join YouthBuild, they form bonds that extend beyond graduation. These offerings help connect our alumni around the world in an accessible, streamlined way,” said Keysla Sano‑Espinosa, Alumni Community Resource Manager for YouthBuild USA. “I’m so excited for them to make the YBAN their own.”
Upcoming events include virtual alumni gatherings for the New England, Great Plains and Pacific Northwest regions in February.
“Human connection, virtual or otherwise, is key to finding purpose and forging new paths,” said John Valverde, President and CEO of YouthBuild USA. “The YBAN is a powerful resource for our alumni as they expand their professional networks, tap into their opportunity youth community, and maintain relationships with those who stood with them on their journeys. This platform is a celebration of how far they have come and all the opportunities that are ahead.”
The network can be accessed through a desktop web browser or apps for iOS and Android. Instructions for mobile download can be found here.
To date, YouthBuild has partnered with more than 180,000 young people in programs throughout the world. In YouthBuild programs, opportunity youth — young adults between the ages of 16 and 24 who are neither in school nor employed — pursue their education, prepare for future careers, and grow into community leaders, building brighter futures for themselves and their neighborhoods. With love and respect, YouthBuild partners with opportunity youth to build the skillsets and mindsets that lead to lifelong learning, livelihood, and leadership. Responding to the urgent need for knowledge, training, and opportunity, YouthBuild primarily serves young people who lack a high school diploma and financial resources.
YouthBuild USA is the nonprofit support center for a global network of more than 275 local YouthBuild programs in 18 countries, with 220 programs in 46 U.S. states and territories and 56 programs in 17 other countries.
