YouthBuild participants spend 6 to 24 months in the program, dividing their time between the construction site and the YouthBuild alternative classroom. Because a comprehensive approach is called for, the YouthBuild program has inevitably become a number of things at once:
 
Alternative school: Students have the opportunity to earn a high school diploma or GED, while preparing for vocational school or college. The curriculum integrates academics with life skills. Classes are small, allowing one-on-one attention to students.
 
Job training program: Students build sound work habits as well as decision-making and time-management skills. They develop career plans and prepare for job interviews. At the job site they receive training from qualified construction instructors.
 
Community service program: Fifty YouthBuild programs in 21 states (including Vermont) engage more than 2,000 low-income young people each year to serve as YouthBuild AmeriCorps members. Upon enrollment of ReTRAIN YouthBuild, students are enrolled in AmeriCorps as reduced half time members. Upon graduation from YouthBuild, students earn a generous education award to further their education and training.
 
Leadership development program: Participants learn to advocate for issues that concern them and their communities, and to take responsibility for themselves and their families. Students share in the governance of their own program through an elected policy committee.
 
Counseling program: Counseling and referrals are offered to address issues such as child care,
transportation, or substance abuse. Students are assigned a counselor, whom they meet with regularly.
 
Long-term mini-community: Graduates have access to resources and support to assist them as they advance their careers, go to college, build assets, and become role models.
 
For more information about YouthBuild Burlington, please call 802.658.4143 x39
For more information about YouthBuild Barre, please call 802.477.7800 x12
 
Download the YouthBuild Brochure
Download a YouthBuild Application