U.S. Department of Labor Awards Millions in YouthBuild Grants

Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis announced on July 13 a second year funding amounting to $66,678,357 to 183 community groups to provide education and training to young people across the United States. The YouthBuild program assists out-of-school youth in obtaining their diplomas or GEDs while providing occupational training in the construction industry. Participants in YouthBuild programs include individuals who have been in the juvenile justice system, youth aging out of foster care, high school dropouts and others. In addition to receiving academic and occupational skill training, these young people develop leadership skills and participate in community service opportunities. Many YouthBuild participants are also learning "green" building techniques, assisting with retrofitting existing homes, and discovering how to help make their communities sustainable and environmentally friendly. Organizations chosen for YouthBuild funding include workforce investment boards, faith-based and community groups, and local and nonprofit housing development agencies. Additionally, on June 18, YouthBuild USA was awarded one of two $10 million competitive national grants from the U.S. Department of Labor to prepare young adult offenders and young people without a high school diploma for employment and postsecondary education as well as to engage them in community leadership.