Combining job skills, training, and GED acquisition for disadvantaged youth

Abstract

Casa Verde Builders (CVB) is an award-winning, project-based education program, at American YouthWorks (AYW), providing participants with hands-on construction skills and applied academics by building single-family, energy-efficient, affordable housing in East Austin communities. CVB members work to improve their own neighborhoods while pursuing their high school diploma or GED. 

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Issue

Many disadvantaged youth never graduate from high school and find fewer opportunities to make a living. By helping out-of-school youth obtain a GED and training them in a marketable skill, the youth can become self-sufficient.

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Action

• Select highly trained staff for the vocational portion of the program
• Obtain input from potential employers
• Encourage input from youth to build decision making and leadership skills
• Combine GED acquisition with job skill training

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Context

The members of the Casa Verde Builders are 17-25 years old and are from low-income families. Seventy-five percent of program participants are not in school. More than 70 percent have been involved with the criminal justice system as juveniles or adults.

Casa Verde participants spend 50 percent of their time with on-site construction training and 50 percent on educational activities.

As part of the AmeriCorps National Volunteer Service Program, CVB members earn a living allowance and are provided health care. Those who successfully complete their 12-month service will also earn an award for higher education or trade school.

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Outcome

Casa Verde participants are able to use their program experience to aquire education certificates and obtain employment.

Since the inception of the Casa Verde Builders program in 1996, over 90 families have realized home ownership in east Austin and over 1000 young people have gained job and life skills.

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Evidence

Due to their dedication and hard work, the young people of Casa Verde have received many awards including the Points of Light Foundation Presidential Service Award, Promising and Effective Practices Network (PEPNet) Effective Initiative Award, Texas Society of Architects Citation of Honor, and US Dept. of Commerce HUD Best Practices Award.

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