Program

YouthBuild Detroit is a full-time, 8 month educational and training program.  You must successfully complete a three week orientation, “Mental Toughness,” before you can be officially enrolled in the program.  A small stipend is paid to students who are accepted into the program.

YouthBuild may be the place for you if you:

- Live in Detroit

- Are between the ages of 18 and 24

- Did not complete high school or obtain a GED

- Have a low income or are unemployed

- Want to study to successfully complete the GED examination

- Want to learn about the construction trades and

- Would like to give back to your community by building homes for low-income families

The Five Key Parts of the YouthBuild Program are:

  • Educational Advancement – Classes in mathematics, reading, writing, social studies and science are offered in preparation for the GED examination and post-secondary education
  • Construction Education and Training – On-the-job training in residential construction and vocational education classes leading to certification by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and the National Homebuilders Institute
  • Leadership and Community Service – Give back to the community through community service and involvement, public speaking, and program governance
  • Counseling and Support Services – Guidance and support through life skills development, support groups, a living allowance, and referral for other physical and mental health needs
  • Career Development and Follow-up Program Assistance – Job readiness training, assistance in career exploration and job placement for qualified graduates is offered as well as preparation for college and other post-secondary educational options

In addition, about half of the enrollees in the YouthBuild Detroit program have an opportunity to serve as AmeriCorps members simultaneously.  The hours that members contribute to building housing is counted as community service, which upon completion entitles them to an educational award which can be used to attend college, university, or other accredited post-secondary education.