Sept. 12, 2012 — Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis has announced that the Institute for Regional Analysis and Public Policy, Morehead State University’s program of distinction in the School of Public Affairs, within the College of Business and Public Affairs, has been chosen to receive $1,021,944 in funding to continue the MSU YouthBuild project.
“YouthBuild offers young people the opportunity to earn academic and industry-recognized credentials, practice the skills they’ll need to succeed at work, and experience what it means to contribute to their own success and that of their communities,” said Solis.
The YouthBuild program is specifically geared to encourage youth, in Rowan County and the surrounding area, those who dropped out of high school, to further their education and attain a GED while gaining valuable construction skills. Participants also engage in leadership and civic activities that bring both personal and public benefits. YouthBuild participants have the opportunity to meet and talk with local leaders and some have served on local committees and boards.
“YouthBuild provides a rare second chance in life, helping young people in Rowan and surrounding counties to complete their education while learning highly marketable skills,” said Dr. Stephen Lange, associate dean of the School of Public Affairs. “We are very pleased to have received this award and continue MSU’s contribution to the economic and community development of our region. We hope that this YouthBuild project will make a genuine difference in the lives of these individuals and in the future of Eastern Kentucky.”
The YouthBuild Program partners with various community groups to participate in the construction and/or rehabilitation of low-income housing in the region. A YouthBuild Advisory Board, made up of members of the community with expertise from local help services, the economy and job market, also helps guide the program and steer its participants toward success.
“The goal of the Department of Labor’s YouthBuild program ties in very well with our mission of the Institute for Regional Analysis and Public Policy and the College of Business and Public Affairs,” said Sarah Wilson, director of applied research at IRAPP. “We are pleased to have the opportunity to continue to have a positive impact in the community, especially in the lives of its youth.”
Information is available by calling Wilson at 783-5419.
