More Than $1 million in Federal Support for American YouthWorks

 
"American YouthWorks builds a stronger Austin by builder stronger citizens," said Congressman Doggett.  "I have crawled through the attics with their trainees and seen their pride and accomplishment.  You can see their work firsthand in the Hill Country trails they have landscaped, in the homes they have weatherized, and even more importantly, in the young lives changed and new opportunities opened.  This is the kind of work that should be recognized, rewarded, and copied across the country.

These funds from the U.S. Department of Labor will be used to continue the training of Austin's at-risk youth population enrolled in American YouthWorks' Casa Verde Builders program.  It provides job training and educational opportunities for at-risk youth ages 16 to 26 while constructing or rehabilitating affordable housing for low-income or homeless families in their own neighborhoods. Since 1994, the Casa Verde Builders Program has built almost 100 energy-efficient, sustainable homes for first-time, low-income homebuyers.  Youth split their time between the construction site and the classroom, where they can earn their GED or high school diploma, learn to be community leaders, and prepare for college and other postsecondary training opportunities, such as preparing to enter the construction industry with certifications and a working command of green construction. YouthBuild includes significant support through mentoring, follow-up education, employment, personal counseling, and participation in community service and civic engagement

AYW CEO Parc Smith welcomed news of the grant.  "Our work with Austin's disengaged youth in these times of economic hardship is more important now than ever.  These Federal dollars will be matched with support from the City of Austin, Travis County and local donors to help transform their lives from non-productive or dangerous activities to become an asset to their families and contributing members of our community.  We believe that YouthBuild programs such as American YouthWorks' Casa Verde Builders, are a smart use of federal dollars that stimulates the local economy, builds tomorrows workforce and develops our next generation of community leaders," he said.

If you would like to have a tour of one of the 5-star energy efficient homes built by the YouthBuild members of AYW, please join them on the "Cool Homes" tour on Sunday, June 5, 2011. For more information go to https://www.americanyouthworks.org. 

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