Program areas at American YouthWorks
American Youthworks' youthbuild austin is a comprehensive americorps program that offers youth and young adults ages 17-24 who may be disconnected from academic and employment opportunities, an individualized learning experience, career development, and a supportive network. The blended program model combines education, vocational training and support services such as guidance to post-secondary education, job placement, childcare, and mental health resources. Many of the young people enrolled in the program are from underinvested communities and may face barriers to reconnecting, including experiencing homelessness, pregnancy or parenting, and foster care or court involvement. Participants develop individualized learning plans with program support staff to earn their ged in the growing industries of green construction, it/graphic design, manufacturing or healthcare, and access wraparound services to support their personal and professional development.
American Youthworks' conservation corps is an americorps national service program accredited by the corps network and headquartered in austin, tx, with operating sites in houston, tx and baton rouge, la. Every year, the program engages 125-150 young adults ages 18-28 and from diverse backgroungs in conservation education and training through on-site conservation projects and natural disaster events. Program participants learn the skills needed to address critical environmental issues to support the community and earn industry certifications. Through local and national partnerships with entities such as city of austin, Texas parks and wildlife, and national park service, conservation crews contribute to the stewardship of national, state and local parks and preserves, and are deployed by fema to restore communities during initial phases of natural disaster response and recovery. The outdoor experience along with job skills training builds confidence, teamwork and leadership skills while inspiring personal development and preparing for work in the public and private sectors.