Job training program for high school dropouts wins continuation funding
Every year, thousand of students in the Birmingham area drop out of high school. Which means they are more likely to be unemployed and living in poverty.
Birmingham Youthbuild gives them a second chance. The program, located in a renovated church in Ensley, provides free GED classes, construction skills training, life skills classes and employment readiness training to students ages 19-24. They also receive free transportation, lunch and an attendance stipend of $120 per week. More than 65% of participants complete the program.
The program is funded by a competitive grant the U.S. Department of Labor. Less than half of the programs that apply are funded. Last week, The Secretary of Labor announced that Aletheia House has been selected to receive funding.
“We have more than 350 applicants who are waiting to see if we will continue the program”, says Rolanda Warren, Program Manager. “This is such exciting news.”
Individuals interested in learning more about the program can call 788-5122.
