Exciting news for young adults in New Mexico! Youth Development, Inc. (YDI) announced the launch of the second cohort of its transformative YouthBuild program. This incredible initiative, funded by the U.S. Department of Labor, empowers young people, ages 16-24, to build brighter futures through education, job training, and leadership development. Interested individuals are invited to “Mental Toughness Week” starting on March 17 with the cohort beginning officially on March 24.
What is YouthBuild?
YouthBuild provides opportunities for young individuals facing barriers to employment. Participants gain hands-on construction skills while contributing to their community by building or renovating housing for those in need. In New Mexico, this means working on Sol Housing’s Farolito Senior Community, an 82-unit affordable housing community for seniors 55 and older, in partnership with Jaynes Corporation, a local construction company.
A Holistic Approach to Success
YDI YouthBuild goes beyond just construction training. It offers a comprehensive program designed to equip participants with the tools they need to thrive:
Education: Participants can earn their High School Equivalency (HSE) and develop essential career readiness skills.
On-the-Job Training: The program offers hands-on construction experience, earning industry-recognized NCCER and OSHA 10 certifications. Associated Builders and Contractors of New Mexico (ABCNM) provides construction training and certification using a blended method of live instruction and Transfr VR.
Leadership Development: Participants can enhance their professional skills through resume workshops, mock interviews, and training utilizing NCCER's Tools for Success curriculum.
Case Management: Support services, including childcare and transportation assistance are available to all participants. Co-enrollment in the WIOA Youth Program provides additional support, including worksite attire and incentives for achieving milestones. Participants can also access the American Job Center for further career development.
Post-Program Placement: ABCNM will contribute to post-program placements into employment and/or apprenticeship opportunities with direct entry into carpentry, electrical, HVAC/R, plumbing & pipefitting, sheet metal and telecommunications technician.
Building on Success
The first YouthBuild cohort has been a resounding success! Despite starting with a smaller group than anticipated, the participants have shown remarkable progress.
"The first cohort has been going well," reports Concha Cordova, Vice-President
Education, Employment & Training at YDI. "Although we didn't receive the number of participants we aimed for, the nine participants have been progressing very well and feedback has been great.”
The participants especially enjoy the leadership and development classes at YDI, their hands-on instruction at the jobsite, and learning from superintendent Jeremy St. Cyr and all the instructors. One participant has already received their High School equivalency. With two months left to go, more participants expect to earn their High School Equivalency and are already looking forward to what's next for them.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Opportunities
YDI is excited to build on this success with the upcoming cohorts. The goal is to increase participation and create a thriving community of learners. By utilizing the experience of the first cohort as mentors, YDI aims to create a sustainable and impactful program.
Youth Development, Inc. is a nationally recognized organization dedicated to empowering youth and families. If you or someone you know is interested in joining the YDI-YouthBuild program, visit www.ydinm.org/program/youth-build/.
Sol Housing is a nonprofit organization specializing in the planning, design, construction, and management of multi-family housing communities that people can afford. Its mission is to create exceptional housing that promotes household stability and vibrant communities. www.solhousing.org
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