YouthBuild-Elgin improving communities, creating opportunities, and changing lives; one young person at a time
The Elgin Community welcomes YouthBuild, a new program that provides opportunities to local youth, ages 16-24, to help them complete or enhance their high school education while obtaining construction knowledge and skills that will position participants to get well paying, high demand, quality jobs in the construction trade.
In addition to the knowledge training and support participants will receive a small stipend to help offset expenses.
The program is funded by the Department of Labor and was brought to Elgin through the efforts of the Housing Authority of Elgin; however it is open to any qualified young person residing in the Elgin community.
The program has been warmly welcomed and supported by the community. The program site is housed on the second floor of the First United Methodist Church in Elgin.
The YouthBuild Elgin program, launched on Dec. 12, 2023, is currently accepting enrollment.
Participants are learning construction skills with the help of the Elgin Area Men’s Shed.
The “Shedders,” led by Steve Knight, have been working with the YBE participants to teach them about the proper use and safety of hand and power tools, while engaging in projects like building picture frames, constructing a framed art display, and a life-size square framed snowman.
Other YBE partners include: KCT Financial, which is helping participants learn and manage their finances; Gail Borden Public Library, which is working to connect participants with a myriad resources; Anderson Humane who brought in some fun and furry companions; and Cross Kicks Fitness, who is helping participants build strong bodies along with strong minds.
Participants will perfect their construction skills, working with Habitat for Humanity of the Northern Fox Valley to build and rehab affordable housing units for Elgin residents.
The mission of the program is connecting young people to their community and to develop participants as leaders who will use their energy to positively impact their communities. The goal of YBE is not just job placement but also serves to remove the obstacles to participants’ success.
The next orientation is scheduled to start on Monday, March 18. There is no cost to qualified participants. If you or someone you know is looking for an opportunity to improve their lives, email info@ybelgin.org or call (847) 742-3853.
YouthBuild was founded over 40 years ago. Today, there are more than 280 YouthBuild programs across the United States and around the world, where students reclaim their education, gain job skills, and become leaders in their communities.
To date, YouthBuild has partnered with more than 200,000 young people to dedicate over 51 million hours of service. YouthBuild strives to create a world where all young people are seen for their potential, and power to transform themselves and their communities.