LC’s YouthBuild Offers Young Adults a Second Chance Through Education, Construction Training and Community Service

ALTON- For young adults who left high school before earning a diploma, Lewis and Clark Community College's YouthBuild program offers more than a path back to the classroom. It provides career training, leadership development and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the community.

Serving students ages 16 to 24, YouthBuild combines high school diploma instruction with hands-on construction training, paying students while they learn and preparing them for careers in the skilled trades. Participants also develop leadership skills while helping revitalize neighborhoods throughout the region.

"YouthBuild is really about creating opportunities," Adult Education Director of Career Pathways Sabrina Davis said. "Students earn their high school diploma while developing job skills, leadership abilities and the confidence to move into employment, apprenticeships or college.

Students attend the full-time program Monday through Friday for approximately six to nine months. During that time, they work toward earning an Illinois High School Diploma while receiving industry-recognized construction credentials, including safety certifications. Students are paid while they learn and can earn additional money by reaching educational and training milestones. The program emphasizes teamwork, professionalism and workplace expectations.

As part of their training, students renovate vacant homes in partnership with the City of Alton. Homes that might otherwise be demolished are restored and eventually sold, helping strengthen neighborhoods while giving students real-world construction experience

Beyond home rehabilitation, YouthBuild students complete a variety of community service projects through AmeriCorps, including building community amenities and assisting nonprofit organizations throughout the region. Participants who complete AmeriCorps service also earn an education award that can be used toward eligible postsecondary education or career training.

"YouthBuild isn't just teaching construction," Davis said. "Our students are learning how to show up every day, work as a team, solve problems and give back to their communities. Those experiences help prepare them for long-term success."

The program provides extensive support services to help students overcome barriers that may have prevented them from completing school. Participants work with a dedicated pathway advocate, transition coordinator and job developer who assist with goal setting, career planning, employment and college enrollment. Assistance with transportation, childcare, food and other needs may also be available for eligible students.

Students accepted into the program receive work uniforms, boots, tools and safety equipment at no cost. In addition to earning stipends for daily attendance, participants can receive incentive payments for completing educational and industry credential milestones, allowing them to earn money as they prepare for careers in the skilled trades.

Enrollment takes place before the fall and spring semesters. Prospective students begin by completing the online enrollment form through LC's Adult Education website, followed by an assessment, an interview and a one-week orientation known as "Mental Toughness."

Although YouthBuild primarily serves students who have not yet earned a high school diploma, a limited number of participants who already hold a diploma may also qualify if they need additional academic support while pursuing career training.

LC's YouthBuild program currently has openings available for the Fall 2026 cohort.

Individuals interested in learning more or applying can call (618) 468-4141 or email Outreach Specialist Jill Dupy at [email protected].

For more information about YouthBuild, visit https://www.lc.edu/academic-programs/high-school-diploma/youthbuild.html.