The Elgin Community welcomes YouthBuild, a new program that provides opportunities to local youth ages 16-24 to help them complete or enhance their high school education while obtaining construction knowledge and skills that will position participants to get well paying, high demand, quality jobs in the construction trade. In addition to the knowledge training and support participants will receive a small stipend to help off set expenses.

The program was brought to Elgin through the efforts of the Elgin Housing Authority but is open to any qualified young person residing in the Elgin community.

The program has been warmly welcomed and supported by the community. It is housed on the 2^nd floor of the First United Methodist Church in Elgin. The YouthBuild Elgin, YBE, participants are learning construction skills with the help of The Elgin Area Men’s Shed. The Men’s Shed, “Shedders,” led by Steve Knight, have been working with the YBE participants to teach them about the proper use and safety of hand and power tools, while engaging in projects like building picture frames, constructing a framed art display, and a life-sized square framed snowman.

Other YBE partners include Andersen Humane who brought in some fun and furry companions, Cross Kicks Fitness, who is helping participants build strong bodies along with strong minds, KCT Financial, which is helping participants learn and manage their finances, and the Gail Borden Library, which is working to connect participants with a myriad of resources. Participants will perfect their construction skills, working with Habitat for Humanity to build and rehab housing for Elgin residents.

The mission of the program is connecting young people to their community and to develop participants as leaders who will use their energy to positively impact their communities. The goal of YBE is not just job placement but also serves to remove the obstacles to participants’ success.

The next orientation is scheduled to start on March 18, 2024, and there is no cost to qualified participants. If you or someone you know is looking for an opportunity to improve their lives, don’t delay please email info@ybelgin.org or call 847-742-3853.

YouthBuild was founded over 40 years ago. Today there are more than 280 YouthBuild programs across the United States and around the world, where students reclaim their education, gain job skills, and become leaders in their communities.

To date, YouthBuild has partnered with more than 200,000 young people to dedicate over 51 million hours of service. YouthBuild strives to create a world where all young people are seen for their potential, and power to transform themselves and their communities.