YouthBuild Lake County isn’t like any other path to success. Our staff works with you to figure out how YouthBuild will best fit your needs and will design an individualized plan to help you achieve your goals. Our program provides you the opportunity to earn your high school diploma and receive college and career readiness training. 

In The Classroom

We partner with Penn Foster, an online nationally and regionally accredited high school. You are able to work at your own pace while you earn your high school diploma for free. Penn Foster offers courses in general education like history and math, as well as electives like automotive repair and art appreciation.

Our education staff is here to help you with what you need to earn your diploma and further your education. We have connections to local colleges and vocational schools and offer resources to help you from the application process to graduation and everything in between. You will also earn industry-recognized credentials that add to your experience and set you up for success as you start you career.

Outside The Classroom

As a YouthBuild member, you are also a part of AmeriCorps, a nationwide network of volunteers who work together to serve their communities. YouthBuild AmeriCorps members learn valuable construction skills and work to give back by rehabbing homes in the community.

As part of our program requirements, you will work to complete 450 AmeriCorps service hours. Completing 450 service hours also gives you the opportunity to earn a $1678 education award that can be used to help pay for college tuition. There are several ways you can earn service hours, including:

  • Working hands-on at one of our construction sites
  • Participating in Service Projects
  • Volunteering at community events

Career Pathways

You will gain the skills necessary for a career by participating in mock interviews, resume workshops, job fairs, and more. As part of our program, you will complete an internship or work experience with one of our local business partners. We offer career pathways in:

HVAC

Transportation

Healthcare

Information Technology

Automotive

Leadership Development

We encourage civic engagement through leadership. You will have the opportunity to run for Youth Policy Council, which allows you to work side-by-side with our Board of Directors to advocate for your peers and be a leader within the program. In addition to YPC, you will have the chance to participate in several leadership opportunities.

Supportive Services

We want you to be able to fully focus on your future without concern. To help you while you are attending our program, we will pay you a small stipend. In addition to the stipend, we have other resources to offer you support, including: 

Mental Health & Substance Abuse Counseling

Food, Shelter, and Transportation Assistance

Childcare Assistance

Legal Aid

Financial Management Assistance

Alumni Success

Once you are a member of YouthBuild, you are a member for life. Our staff works to build partnerships with community organizations, employers, and workforce development organizations to ensure you always have access to job opportunities. We want you to continue to use us as a resource and we pledge to offer you follow up support and guidance in your career, education, and life.

Alumni Testimonials