Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) joined leaders from WNY AmeriCorps and students participating in the agency’s YouthBuild program to announce a new $1,087,819 federal grant for the organization. 

“YouthBuild is a great program that combines an effort to rehab homes and neighborhoods in older communities like Buffalo with education and job training giving participants the opportunity to rebuild their future,” said Congressman Higgins. 

YouthBuild assists young people obtain their diplomas or GEDs while providing occupational training in the construction industry.  YouthBuild programs are a vital part of WNY AmeriCorps’ mission to create opportunities for all individuals to serve their community. Young men and women join YouthBuild programs to serve their community while receiving opportunities to obtain an educational experience that will enhance their employment skills as a means to achieving self-sufficiency.

WNY AmeriCorps Interim Executive Director Kate Sarata added, “I get excited on days like today to know that yet another 64 at risk young people in Western New York will get the opportunity to learn and grow their skills while improving Buffalo’s housing stock.  In a federal budget where YouthBuild funding was cut by over 50% this year, this announcement says to me that we continue to do it the right way.”

The Western New York YouthBuild program will use electric reduction audit equipment, blower door technology and an insulation blower to train participants in green building and energy efficiency concepts. After participants attain their GED certificate, they are enrolled in the Erie Community College Pre-Collegiate Studies Program. Upon graduation from this program, students are eligible to transition into a two-year post-secondary-education degree track or a variety of employment opportunities with our established partners in the construction and green building industries.

In the past two years, 64 YouthBuild participants have assisted with the construction of the Broadway Market “Green Roof” and renovated dozens of Buffalo homes with a focus on green sustainability and energy efficiency.  With the continued support of the U.S. Department of Labor, WNY YouthBuild will be able to provide the same experiences to another 64 at-risk youth in Buffalo.