Portland YouthBuilders

Portland YouthBuilders (PYB) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing education, vocational training, leadership development, and long-term support to low-income youth. Founded in 1995, PYB aims to help young people achieve rewarding careers and break the cycle of generational poverty.

Mission

The mission of Portland YouthBuilders is to support young people committed to changing their lives to become self-sufficient, contributing members of the workforce and their community. PYB focuses on helping individuals finish high school, learn a trade, and find employment in fields like construction or technology.

Programs

• YouthBuild Program: This comprehensive program is designed for low-income youth aged 17-24 who wish to complete high school and train in either construction or technology. Students spend up to 12 months in classes and vocational training, with opportunities to develop leadership skills and receive support from counselors and career coaches.

• Bridge Program: A short-term intensive construction training program aimed at high school graduates between 18 and 26 years old. The program prepares participants to enter the construction industry within nine weeks, often through placement in apprenticeships or their first construction job.

Services and Features

• Vocational Training: PYB offers specialized training in construction and technology. Construction students are involved in building affordable housing for low-income families, while technology students provide tech support and refurbish computers for non-profits. The construction training program is approved as a pre-apprenticeship by the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industry.

• Educational Support: Students work towards earning a high school diploma or GED. The program includes counseling and case management services to address personal barriers such as poverty, health issues, and personal instability.

• Leadership Development: PYB encourages leadership skills through project-based learning and community service. Students participate in AmeriCorps, earning education awards upon completion of community service hours.

• Financial Support: All enrolled students receive a monthly stipend for their participation and performance in the program.

Impact

Since its inception, Portland YouthBuilders has helped thousands of young people achieve higher education or career placement. The organization emphasizes equity and inclusion, serving a diverse student body, with nearly 60% identifying as people of color. By integrating education with vocational skills and providing a supportive environment, PYB fosters personal growth and community engagement among its students.

Accreditation

Portland YouthBuilders has been fully accredited by Cognia (formerly AdvancED) since 1999, ensuring high standards of academic and vocational training.

Community Engagement

PYB's students contribute significantly to the community through volunteer work, building affordable homes and providing technology services to non-profits. On average, students provide over 30,000 hours of volunteer service annually.