YouthBuild Worcester

From their construction and construction-plus tracks to their culinary program to their financial literacy program, YouthBuild Worcester is equipping young people with the skills they need to build their futures. The program, operated by Training Resources of America Inc. (TRA), serves more than 500 opportunity youth who are transforming their lives and communities.

Construction
As they gain construction credentials, YouthBuild Worcester students are building a multi-family home for low-income families in the Worcester community, gaining many hours of hands-on experience on the construction site. They have assisted with building the frames and doors, installing insulation, and completing many other tasks necessary to ensure that they have all of the necessary skills to build a home from start to finish.

“YouthBuild Worcester is an amazing program. It has helped me to grow in many ways. During the program, I became highly motivated and was able to complete my OSHA 30 and PACT certifications, as well as obtain my HiSET. I am who I am because of YouthBuild.”
-Hunter, YouthBuild Worcester  2026 Graduate

Culinary and Nutrition
YouthBuild Worcester’s success is due in large part to the strong community partnerships that have been developed over the years. The program’s most recent partnership with Quinsigamond Community College Culinary Program has given direction to 10 future chefs. These aspiring chefs receive classroom instruction daily, complete hands-on labs in an industrial kitchen, and learn how to do point of sale transaction.

“Food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate. It was very fun and interesting to learn about the different ways to go about cooking.”
-Katelynn, YouthBuild Worcester 2026 Graduate

Community partnerships with organizations, such as UMASS Extension Nutrition Education Program and Centro Senior Center teach students basic nutrition practices and create volunteer opportunities for students. The program dives into caloric intake, the importance of balanced nutritional meals, how to make informed food choices, and how to make quick skillet meals that students can recreate on their own.

Financial Literacy
Santander Financial Literacy Curriculum emphasizes the importance of students having good money management practices. The curriculum is seven to eight weeks long and covers a variety of topics, including but not limited to basic banking and budgeting, intro to credit, and identity theft. Students also learn about the basic steps and information needed to get an auto loan, purchase a home, and start a business.

“TRA has improved my life in more ways than one. I’ve learned to be open and honest. There’s a great sense of community and family bond.”
-Analis, YouthBuild Worcester 2026 Graduate