US Labor Department awards $66.7 million in YouthBuild grants

WASHINGTON — Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis today announced second year funding amounting to $66,678,357 to 183 community groups to provide education and training to young people across the United States. The YouthBuild program assists out-of-school youth in obtaining their diplomas or GEDs while providing occupational training in the construction industry. While acquiring leadership skills and participating in community service, at-risk youth build and renovate affordable housing within their communities.

“President Obama and I are delighted to provide second year funding for this successful program, which does so much for youth and their communities,” said Secretary Solis. “Not only does the YouthBuild program assist young people in obtaining additional education, it provides them with a sense of accomplishment, and empowers them to be good citizens and productive members of their communities.”

Participants in YouthBuild programs include individuals who have been in the juvenile justice system, youth aging out of foster care, high school dropouts and others. In addition to receiving academic and occupational skill training, these young people develop leadership skills and participate in community service opportunities. Many YouthBuild participants are also learning “green” building techniques, assisting with retrofitting existing homes, and discovering how to help make their communities sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Organizations chosen for YouthBuild funding include workforce investment boards, faith-based and community groups, and local and nonprofit housing development agencies. The YouthBuild program was transferred by Congress from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to the U.S. Department of Labor in 2006.

The fiscal year 2009 funding for these YouthBuild grantees totaled $113,525,000, bringing overall funding to $180,203,354. Remaining funds from the FY 2010 YouthBuild appropriation of $102,500,000 will be used for ongoing technical assistance and a new YouthBuild competition. It is anticipated that this competition will be announced this summer with awards made in late fall. The Labor Department anticipates making approximately 28 grants. This competition will be full and open; however, those grantees who were awarded YouthBuild grants in July 2009 are not eligible to apply. The upcoming solicitation will provide specific details on eligibility.

A full list of grantees can be found at http://www.doleta.gov/youth_services/pdf/Complete_YouthBuild_Grants_2009_List2.pdf. For more information on YouthBuild grants and other Department of Labor youth employment programs, visit http://www.doleta.gov/youth_services.