SLATE Receives YouthBuild Grant to Help At-Risk Youth Obtain High School Certifications, Develop Skills in Construction, Healthcare, Logistics, and Transportation Pathways

The St. Louis Agency on Training and Employment (SLATE) has been awarded funding from the U.S. Department of Labor to continue their YouthBuild St. Louis City Program. YouthBuild is a community-based alternative education program for youth between the ages of 16 and 24 who have dropped out of high school and are looking to obtain their high school equivalency and an industry recognized credential.

The award amount is $1,555,629, and the program will run from June 1, 2023, to September 30, 2026, to help 65 youths obtain certifications and develop and enhance job skills to create paths necessary for sustainable employment.

YouthBuild is primarily a construction skills training program designed to provide a hands-on experience for young people who have rarely had opportunities to see tangible and positive results from their efforts. In addition to construction pathways, the new funding will allow SLATE to explore and facilitate training outside construction, such as healthcare and transportation and logistics.

“YouthBuild gives young people a second, third, or fourth chance at succeeding. This special program provides a holistic approach to ensure youth have a support system, mentors, instructors, supportive services, and a paid stipend to eliminate any barriers that may arise on their journey to success. I have witnessed the power of YouthBuild in the lives of young people, and I am ecstatic to have been granted another award to continue our great work,” said Fredrecka McGlown, SLATE Executive Director.

Ranken Technical College is an essential partner of YouthBuild. Ranken serves as the training provider to all participants through classroom instruction and worksite supervision. Other collaborative partners that will assist SLATE in various capacities include the City of St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones, St. Louis Public Schools – Adult Education and Literacy, the St. Louis Development Corporation, Educational Data Systems Inc. (EDSI), Daruby School, and MTC Trucking.

SLATE has opened enrollment for the next YouthBuild cohort. Applicants must be at least 16 years or older, not enrolled in a secondary institution, and be a resident of the City of St. Louis. Interested individuals can contact Carlos Ball, YouthBuild Coordinator, at (314) 657-3519 or cball@stlworks.com.

Once enrolled, participants will start working towards obtaining their credentials and participating in work experience activities and on-the-job training. The SLATE team will ensure YouthBuild students are equipped with all the tools and support they need to complete the program and continue to thrive professionally post-graduation.

For more information about SLATE and our services for unemployed and underemployed St. Louisans, please visit us at www.stlworks.com.