Las Vegas nonprofit program offering free job training to valley youth

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) - Chicanos Por La Causa’s YouthBuild program recently celebrated the graduation of its latest cohort in Las Vegas.

The program, which is free for participants, helps young adults ages 18 to 24 earn their high school equivalency, gain hands-on job training, and receive certifications including OSHA.

“Our students not only are able to leave this program, as I mentioned with an education, a standardized education, but also with hands on work experience, which is the number one barrier that our youth often face when finding jobs,” said Tabitha Castillo, a senior success coach for the program.

Participants are paid $15 an hour while attending the program, which also provides free equipment that participants get to keep. Graduates are able to leave with valuable skills in fields like construction, welding and nursing, and many become the first in their families to earn a diploma or certification.

Scott Bartels, the construction manager for the program, says the impact is life-changing for many.

“When they get their certificates, when they get their education, they’ll tell me they’re so proud of themselves because they’re the first one in their family to ever graduate from high school,” Bartels said.

With more than 75% of graduates finding success after the program, YouthBuild is empowering young adults to break cycles and build a better future for themselves.

Applications are now open for the next cohort, which begins in February. For more information, visit the Chicanos Por La Causa website, or contact their Las Vegas office at (702) 207 – 1614.

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