NORTH CHICAGO – YouthBuild Lake County is accepting applications for its next program session, which will begin March 22 and take place in a hybrid model.
YouthBuild Lake County offers free programs for young adults ages 17-24 so they can earn their high school diploma, gain hands-on work experience, earn industry-recognized credentials and receive college and career assistance, all while giving back to their community.
YouthBuild’s program is designed around the individual. Students work with a talented, dedicated group of people who are ready to help by listening and getting to know the individual so they can help them build a plan that’s right for their future. And they’re ready to go the extra mile to help make it happen.
YouthBuild Lake County has helped more than 800 people in the area gain access to the resources they need to succeed. Through the organization’s partnerships with local businesses, students have the chance to gain real-world experience in fields such as construction, HVAC, automotive, health care and information technology.
“I learned how to work hard for what I want and to communicate better with others,” said Alan, YouthBuild Lake County Class of 2017. Alan works full time as a carpenter for Blinderman Construction. Alan just purchased his first home and his 5-year-old son just started school. “I hope my son grows up to be better than I was and learns off of who I am now, not who I was before YouthBuild,” Alan said. “If it wasn’t for YouthBuild, I wouldn’t be where I’m at today. That’s the truth.”
“YouthBuild Lake County is proud that we offered uninterrupted, comprehensive services to our students during the pandemic,” Executive Director Tameka Wilson said. “We are excited to move to a hybrid learning model with our next cohort, continuing to work very closely with our students online and in person, providing students and alumni with academics, career coaching and counseling services.”
To learn more or fill out an application, visit www.yblc.org or call 847-473-3483.
The mission of YouthBuild Lake County is to provide underserved young adults with education, training and life skills necessary to become gainfully employed and build a better future.