KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Among a development of houses under construction in Kansas City, Kan., there’s one being built by a group of young people with no experience. The YouthBuild program is helping at-risk teens earn their GEDs and learn a trade at the same time.
Most of the workers at the construction site never finished their high school education and have never held a hammer in their hands. YouthBuild helps them learn basic carpentry skills which can get them a job now, and complete their high school education, which can provide even more opportunities for them later.
The new home the group is building looks like every other one in the development. But unlike the others, this house is being built by novices who’ve never done anything like it. The goal is to help them become responsible citizens and develop a sense of confidence and self-worth when they see what they’re making.
“The first day we were here when there was nothing but concrete,” explained Jack Capehart, construction manager for YouthBuild. “When we left we had a first floor deck on. My trainees get so pumped up I have to pull them off the ceiling. They’re just so filled with confidence and excitement that they’ve accomplished something.”
Capehart calls the YouthBuild program a second chance for those between the ages of 16 and 24 to get back on a path to success in life. In his seven years as construction manager, he’s watched seven graduates go on to college. But he’s also attended five funerals for trainees who were in the program. Chester Mitchell, 19, knows success is not a guarantee, but says he’s just happy to get another chance.
“I’ve been wanting to be in construction since I was little,” Mitchell said. “But when I got kicked out of school I felt down about it. Once I got back into YouthBuild I got confidence. I’m confident that I can keep going now.”
The program is funded by a three-year grant worth $1.1 million from the U.S. Department of Labor. After spending 10 to 15 months in the program, many are able to earn their high school equivalency certificate and find jobs in the workforce.
YouthBuild is getting ready to train a new class of teens in January. For more information about the program call 913-371-3770 or drop by 1821 N 3rd Street, Kansas City, Kan., for an application.