Last week, the Tampa Housing Authority learned that they would receive more than $1 million for one of its programs targeting youth. The funds are earmarked to continue the success of the program.

Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis stated that the funding is to support the agency’s YouthBuild Program. YouthBuild is a non-residential, community based alternative education program. It provides classroom instruction and occupational skills training to at-risk youth and young adults between the ages of 16 and 24.

The program helps out-of-school youth earn a GED or high school diploma while learning critical occupational skills in construction, health care, information technology and other fields.

Jerome Ryans, President and CEO of the Tampa Housing Authority said, “These dollars will ensure that our YouthBuild Program assists more youth and provides life-changing skills needed to survive in these tough economic times. The PPS Department and its staff are to be commended for submitting such a fine grant.”

Ms. Solis said 74 YouthBuild Programs in 28 states and the District of Columbia would receive funds ranging from $700,000 to $1.1 million. The grants will help 5,000 youth and young adults obtain certifications and skills necessary to achieve economic self-sufficiency.

The Department of Labor now funds 127 YouthBuild programs.

Youth and young adults enrolled in the program offered by the Tampa Housing Authority receive classroom training where they have actually constructed a small building on-site at their training facility. More than 45 individuals have graduated from the program and have gone on to find employment.

Pictured, l to r:  Ralston Gallimore, Pamela Brookes, and Derrick Ware.