Easter Seals TriState partnering with Price Hill Will for Youth Build projects

This year, Easter Seals TriState is partnering with Price Hill Will for its Youth Build program. The first project and collaboration effort is a complete rehabilitation of 1017 Fisk Ave., a residential property in Price Hill, which will be put back on the market in much better shape.
 
Construction began on March 10, with a “wall breaking” event on March 14.
 
The project will provide 18 at-risk youth the opportunity to work in construction and learn pre-apprenticeship skills, while furthering their academic careers through a GED program or classes through Cincinnati State.
 
Participants will spend two days on-site and two days off, with the last day of the week reserved for their priority site—either academic, training or work site. Participants earn $8 per hour, which helps them meet their needs and provides a financial incentive for their academic progress, says Debbie Smith, VP of Education for Employment at Easter Seals TriState.
 
Youth Build is a national U.S. Department of Labor program, with more than 273 program sites across the country. Youth Build is open to men and women ages 18-24 who want to improve their lives by earning their high school diploma or GED while preparing for a career in construction or advanced manufacturing.
 
The program connects young adults to education, develops their leadership skills, provides one-on-one case management, connects them to job and apprenticeship opportunities, and builds their construction and/or advanced manufacturing skills.
 
To enroll in Youth Build, you must perform at a minimum 6th grade level in math and reading, be willing to commit to six months paid construction training, and be willing to work toward your high school diploma or GED with the goal of attending post-secondary school or training.
 
By Caitlin Koenig
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