June 23, 2009

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Jerry McNerney (CA-11) announced today that the YouthBuild San Joaquin program will receive a $1.1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. 

“I’m glad that young people in San Joaquin will benefit from these funds,” said Rep. McNerney.  “During these tough economic times, it’s more important than ever that our youth have the resources and training they need to find jobs and that’s what these funds are intended to do.”

Mick Founts, Deputy Superintendent, San Joaquin County Office of Education and Sheilah Goulart, Coordinator, Youthbuild San Joaquin also joined the Congressman in recognizing the importance of this grant.

“Youthbuild San Joaquin is a program that prepares our young people for a successful future, because it teaches them specific skills that can transfer into many areas of work,” said Dr. Founts.  “When our young people can obtain jobs because of this program, they become more successful in pursuing further education, become more successful family members, and ultimately become productive members of our community.  Receiving this funding supports a proven program and we are excited about the opportunity to help more young people grow and become successful.”

“YouthBuild San Joaquin is thrilled to receive a second Department of Labor grant that will allow us continue the program’s work in Stockton through 2012 and to double enrollment,” said Ms. Goulart. “During the program’s first three years of operation, 74 youth completed a YouthBuild and OSHA certification and many also earned a high school diploma or GED.  We currently have a waiting list of over 250 youth and these new funds will provide additional opportunities for them to access our services.” 

The San Joaquin County Office of Education’s YouthBuild program assists out-of-school youth in obtaining their diplomas or GEDs while providing occupational training in the construction industry.  YouthBuild places an emphasis on leadership skills through community service and helps its participants to find apprenticeships and jobs after graduating from the program.