While most young people are just now heading back to school, our YouthBuild members at Project REBUILD have been hard at work all summer long—learning, building, and growing in ways that go far beyond the classroom. From completing a Habitat for Humanity home for Amanda and her family to joining the Boys & Girls Club’s summer camp, their summer has been filled with purpose and impact. They also partnered with Stark Parks and First Tee of Canton on service projects, showing leadership and heart in action across the community.
But the summer wasn’t just about giving back—it was also about moving forward. Our members earned OSHA-10 safety certifications, construction and customer service credentials, and made real progress toward their high school diplomas. Many logged valuable AmeriCorps hours, participated in local community events, and even toured a college campus—opening doors to future possibilities. They stepped out of their comfort zones through new experiences and completed Mental Toughness designed to build resilience and confidence. And with our new Solar Pathway training on the horizon, they’ve already begun preparing for the next big step in their journey.
Unlike traditional school programs, Project REBUILD operates year-round, with new classes starting four times a year. This steady rhythm helps our YouthBuild members build habits that reflect the real world. Just like in the workplace, they show up consistently, stay engaged, and grow through every season. It’s not just about earning credentials—it’s about developing the mindset, discipline, and confidence that lead to long-term success. So while others are just getting back to school, our members are already deep into their journey, building futures with purpose, pride, and momentum.
