Our Approach:
The Philosophy
As a community, we are engaged in a united struggle to overcome the social, political, economic, educational and spiritual inequities, which threaten to destroy us as a people. We recognize that as young people, we are one of the greatest resources available to the survival of our community.
Therefore, we stand ready and willing and hereby pledge our commitment: to rebuild and improve the quality of life in our community through collective work, responsibility and cooperative economics; to educate, elevate and raise the consciousness of ourselves and others along the way; to develop our potential as leaders and positive role models so we can proactively pursue justice, equality and peace for all. All this we do with appreciation, love, dignity, respect and faith that the collective will of the community is the greatest force conceivable.
At YouthBuild Newark, young people have access to:
Accountability
Students create Individual Development Plans (IDPs) that outline their personal and professional objectives and help them remain accountable to its fullfillment
In-Demand Certifications
Through workshops, guest speakers, conferences, and on-site construction skill development, students learn how to prepare for in-demand careers.
Individualized Learning
We meet students where they are while offering opportunities to advance toward self-identified goals.
Relationship Development
Students learn to develop healthy relationships with their peers, staff, families, and the overall community.
Social-Emotional Support
YBN is staffed with committed case managers and partners of social and health service agencies, who provide young people with the wrap-around supports needed to feel empowered and equipped to continually achieve.
Leadership Development
We believe that every young person has the capacity to be a leader, so we provide students with extensive informal and formal opportunities to cultivate their leadership skills.