SER YouthBuild Construction Institute

Program Type: Youth workforce development and education program

Geographic Scope: Detroit, Michigan

Target Population:

• Ages 18-24 years old
• Detroit residents
• Out-of-school and out-of-work youth seeking a second chance
• Unemployed and undereducated low-income youth

Program Components:

• GED or high school diploma preparation
• Construction certificate training
• Hands-on construction skills training by building affordable housing
• Community service and leadership training
• Job skills development
• Placement support for employment, apprenticeships, or post-secondary education

Focus Areas:

• Education (GED attainment)
• Construction trades training
• Community development (affordable housing construction)
• Youth leadership development

Funding Source: U.S. Department of Labor

Key Statistics:

• Produced over 30,000 units of affordable housing across rural and urban communities
• Program results show 31% increase in college enrollment, 51% increase in vocational school enrollment, 78% increase in GED attainment, 76% increase in volunteerism compared to control groups
• YouthBuild graduates are less likely to rely on government benefits 30 months after program start

Contact Information:

• Phone: (313) 945-5200
• Email: youth@sermetro.org
• Address: Youth Workforce Center, 9215 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48210

Additional Notes:

• Part of national YouthBuild USA network operating in 45 states
• SER YouthBuild Construction Institute is part of YouthBuild International effort with 100+ programs in 21 countries
• Graduates go on to careers, registered apprenticeships, or post-secondary education

How to Apply

1. Complete eligibility assessment
   • Online assessment form: https://goo.gl/forms/EwI3O5Bauj33HJB22
   • NOTE: Completion of assessment does not guarantee eligibility
2. Contact for enrollment:
   • Phone: (313) 945-5200
   • Email: youth@sermetro.org
3. Program requirements:
   • Regular attendance required
   • Must be willing to work toward GED or construction certificate
   • Commitment to community service and leadership training

Required Materials:

• Completion of online assessment
• Proof of Detroit residency
• Age verification (18-24)