Nationally, more than 2.3 million low-income 16-24 year-olds are not pursuing education, employment or training. In communities across the country, some less young people are educated, high skilled, and actively employed contributing citizens. This means communities are limiting their growth potential, and young people are limiting their possibilities.

This is where the national program, YouthBuild, can be a solution. Through YouthBuild programs, young people earn their education, learn construction skills, and gain skills needed for future, long-term employment. The youth work with partners to build affordable housing in their neighborhoods and other community assets like schools, playgrounds, and community centers. As a result, the YouthBuild program has a ripple effect in communities by helping the youth, individuals, and families access affordable housing, and the communities gain important infrastructure and a skilled workforce.

YouthBuild formed a partnership with AmeriCorps, so many YouthBuild program sites can obtain valuable education awards for postsecondary education. In addition, the AmeriCorps program helps young people develop an identity as community leaders and active citizens who give back to their communities.

Research on the program has shown positive outcomes for the youth participate in the program. YouthBuild programs lower recidivism rates by 40 percent. For every dollar invested in YouthBuild produces a return on investment of $7.80 up to $43.90.

YouthBuild Sites

For the past twenty years, YouthBuild has become a model program funded by the U.S. Department of Labor through a competitive grant process.

Some Key Facts to Know about this Federal Grant:

• Grant applications are due May 9, 2017.
• Eligible applicants are public or private non-profit agencies.
• Individual grants will range from $700,000 to $1.1 million and require a 25 percent match from applicants using sources other than federal funding.

Transform Consulting Group has helped organizations apply for and receive federal grants. We use our program development research and analysis services to help write compelling grant proposals for our clients. If you want to move forward on this grant or other grant initiatives, contact us today for a free consultation.