Youth Build

In Youthbuild programs, unemployed and undereducated young people, ages 16-24 work toward their GED or high school diploma while learning construction skills by building affordable housing for homeless and low-income people.   Strong emphasis is placed on leadership development, community service, and the creation of a positive mini-community of adults and youth committed to success.  

CAA Youthbuild is designed to offer young adults an opportunity to build the educational, occupational, and leadership skills necessary to become self sufficient while contributing to their families and communities. It is a comprehensive program focusing on five main components: education, construction, leadership, counseling and graduate services that provide the framework for the young adults’ future.   CAA Youthbuild has partnered with Jackson county alternative schools, adult education programs, Greater Jackson Habitat For Humanity, and the Jackson Area Career Center to provide the young adults the education and skills necessary to complete their high school diploma or GED and build two homes for Habitat for Humanity in the Partnership Park Neighborhood.  

In order to qualify, applicants must be:

·          16 to 24 years old

·          In drop out status from high school

·          Able to complete high school or obtain a GED within a year

·          Able to meet financial eligibility criteria

·          Committed to rebuilding their community

·          Committed to a rigorous and rewarding program

·          Willing to change their lives 

Services Offered

·          Leadership skills training

·          Construction training

·          Educational training to earn diploma or GED

·          Career development

·          Job placement assistance

·          Life skills training

·            Opportunity to start a matched savings account

·          Weekly stipends ( $$$) to aid in financial stability

Q:  How do I apply for the program?

A:  Applications are available 24hrs a day at the Barham Resource Center, 711 S. Mechanic Street, Jackson, MI.  Completed applications can be dropped off, mailed, faxed, emailed, or carrier pigeon to the address above during the week between the hours of 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM.

Q:  The stipend is a paycheck, right?  I get paid to go back to school and learn skills that will help me get a job or in college?

A:  Yes! The stipend is a weekly living allowance designed to help with transportation, living expenses, day care, etc.

Q:  What is the daily schedule?

A:  We usually work Mondays through Fridays.  School & GED is Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.  Construction is Monday through Thursday 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM.  The break in between allows for a lunch break and time to schedule doctor and probation appointments.  Fridays usually begin around 10:00 AM and vary in length depending on what the topic of the day.

Name:  Paul Burnham, Youthbuild Program Operations Manager

Address:  711 S. Mechanic Street, Jackson, MI 49203

Phone/Fax/Email:  517-962-2916

                            pburnham@caajlh.org