US Labor Department Announces $80M In Grants For Job, Leadership Skills Among Disadvantaged Youth

For youth who left high school early and lack a state equivalency diploma, a continuing education and career success can be a goal beyond reach. Throughout the nation, YouthBuild programs seek to help these young people in learning critical job skills in construction as a path to economic independence.

Today, the U.S. Department of Labor announced the availability of $80 million in grant funding to support and expand YouthBuild programs nationwide. For those programs that offer the "YouthBuild Construction Plus" model, participating youth can take advantage of expanded occupational skills training in additional in-demand occupations, such as health care, information technology or logistics.

"In America, your zip code should never determine your destiny," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez. "YouthBuild offers valuable opportunities for young people to get the education and skills training they need to succeed on the job and in life."

Grants awarded through this funding opportunity will range from $700,000 to $1.1 million each to about 80 organizations to provide education and employment services to disadvantaged youth in their communities.