News Summary
Philadelphia’s Youth Skills Building Program, run by Catholic Charities, provides vital trade education to at-risk teens, enhancing their life skills and future opportunities. In its first year, the program positively impacted 29 teens, focusing on practical training in trades such as carpentry and electrical work. With increasing community support and interest, the YSBP aims to empower even more youths, reducing street violence while promoting personal and professional development.
Philadelphia Youth Skills Building Program Empowers At-Risk Teens Through Trade Education
Philadelphia’s Youth Skills Building Program (YSBP), operated by Catholic Charities, provides vital trade education to at-risk teenagers in neighborhoods suffering from violence and poverty. As the program marks its first anniversary, it has positively impacted 29 teens across three cohorts, offering essential life skills that have the potential to reshape their futures.
The YSBP targets primarily rising high school seniors, with many participants kicking off their journey in September. The program offers practical training in various trades, including carpentry, concrete masonry, electrical work, and home repair. This hands-on approach not only equips students with marketable skills but also fosters confidence and personal development.
Located in the former St. Gabriel Parish Elementary School in the Grays Ferry neighborhood of South Philadelphia, the program has garnered financial backing from the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Human Services. Due to the growing interest, a waiting list for prospective participants has emerged, highlighting the program’s relevance in addressing the needs of local youth.
Program Structure
The YSBP runs summer sessions from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., while school-year sessions extend three hours after regular school hours. Skills educator Ken Whalen plays a crucial role in teaching varied trade skills, while Dominique Acevedo emphasizes workforce and personal development, preparing participants for future job opportunities.
Impact on Participants
With a focus on empowerment, the program has helped participants like 17-year-old Chase Morris develop increased confidence and leadership abilities. Another participant, Jahierah Morrison, has gained valuable lessons in patience and teamwork. Such testimonials underscore the program’s effectiveness in instilling critical soft skills alongside technical trades.
Graduates of the YSBP have found new pathways to success, enrolling in CNC Machining programs that lead to direct job placements. Several are also considering enrolling in trade schools or pursuing further education at institutions like the Williamson College of the Trades or venturing into business entrepreneurship.
Broader Goals
The overarching goal of the YSBP is to engage youth meaningfully while providing them with essential life skills. The program aims not only to reduce street violence but also to offer improved career prospects for young individuals facing societal challenges. As participants gain skills and confidence, many express a newfound sense of hope and purpose in their lives.
With the ongoing support from the city and the community, the program envisions expanding its reach, creating opportunities for even more youths in Philadelphia. The focus on personal and professional development positions YSBP as a critical resource in uplifting the community and providing promising futures for its participants.
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Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
