About Us

YouthBuild Providence is a rigorous workforce development program that helps out-of-school youth gain the academic, job readiness, and occupational skills needed to make a successful transition into the construction industry and other high-growth, high-demand occupational sectors.

YouthBuild Providence has been in operation since 1997 – making us one of the longest running programs in the country. During these past ten years, we have designed and implemented a proven program model, built strong community partnerships, and established a sound record of achievement. We have also received national recognition for our model’s academic curriculum and strong partnership with building trade unions – a relationship that enables our graduates to make a seamless transition from our program into a union apprenticeship.

Located in Rhode Island’s capital city, YouthBuild Providence is an urban program with an established target area that consists of five neighborhoods in Providence (Elmwood, Olneyville, Lower South Providence, Upper South Providence, and West End). The need for investment in these areas and Providence as a whole are clear. According to Census 2000, Providence has the 4th highest rate of adult poverty and 3rd highest rate of child poverty among cities with more than 100,000 residents. In portions of our target area, the child poverty rate reaches 60%, and the unemployment rate exceeds 20%. These indicators are driven by high rates of school dropout (38%) and a disproportionate number of residents who are incarcerated or on parole/probation. According to the RI Department of Corrections, one in eight Providence men are either incarcerated or on parole/probation – with thousands in need of case management, job counseling, housing support, and other services.

YouthBuild Providence operates a rigorous 10-month, full-time curriculum designed to provide our students with the academic and workplace skills needed to make a successful transition into the working world. Our model includes an academic curriculum that prepares students for the GED and higher education; job-readiness training that provides students with the skills needed to secure employment in career-oriented professions; and occupational skills in construction – a booming industry in our state that is poised for substantial growth. Students also develop important leadership skills through service learning and other courses. Throughout this process, we provide high-quality support services and counseling to our students designed to provide them with the life skills needed to overcome personal and structural barriers to employment.