For nearly 22 years, YouthBuild has been restoring homes and restoring lives.
Beginning in 1995, in partnership with Buckeye Community Hope Foundation, students in the YouthBuild Columbus program studied for their GED while learning construction skills. The students built or rehabilitated a total of fifteen houses located in the Empowerment Zone of the city of Columbus, thus making it possible for working families to experience the pride that comes with owning their own homes.
In September 2001, YouthBuild Columbus Community School, sponsored by Buckeye Community Hope Foundation, opened its doors to young adults 16-21 years of age, who, for a variety of reasons, dropped out of the traditional academic environment, but wanted a second chance to earn a high school diploma. Later, the first YouthBuild class decided on the nickname "Wildcats" and assumed the school colors of Purple and White.
2009 brought lots of excitement to YouthBuild Columbus with the addition of a State Tested Nurse's Aide training program. Students were now able to earn their STNA certification to jump start their careers after high school, with many deciding to apply for nursing school after graduation. Expanding the healthcare career track, YouthBuild added a Phlebotomy certification program in 2019. Students are able to earn multiple certifications as they earn their high school diploma.
In order to be successful in YouthBuild, students must make a positive commitment to change their lives. We do this through daily practice of our eight keys of excellence. For some, change comes easy. For others, it is a difficult process. We realize that students have many personal, social, and psychological obstacles to overcome in order to be successful. However, YouthBuild promotes hope and the belief that students with the desire to be successful can realize their dreams.