Birmingham Celebrates YouthBuild Graduates
It was a sunny Friday in Birmingham, and excitement filled the air as 25 young adults proudly walked across the graduation stage. These graduates were part of the Housing Authority of Birmingham District’s Magic City YouthBuild program, a fantastic initiative that has been helping youth since its launch in October 2022.
The YouthBuild program focuses on empowering young people aged 16 to 24 who have faced challenges in traditional educational settings. With the aim of providing them the tools they need for a brighter future, the program helps participants earn their GED, alongside teaching valuable business skills and trades, particularly in the fields of healthcare and construction.
A Personal Journey of Growth
Among the graduates was Taylor Cunningham, a determined 17-year-old who had a tough year, including being kicked out of high school. But instead of getting discouraged, Taylor made a fantastic pivot, enrolled in YouthBuild, and graduated as the valedictorian. In his inspiring speech, he captured the essence of their journey:
“Today marks not just the end of our journey through this program, but also the beginning of new opportunities and adventures that await us,” Taylor shared with a proud smile. “Many of us face challenges that seem insurmountable…yet here we are, united by our shared experience at the YouthBuild program.”
His words resonated with many, as Taylor talked about not only earning his GED but also forming lifelong friendships and developing relationships with both teachers and peers. “It was about growth,” he emphasized. “We learned not only academic skills, but life lessons that will guide us through our future endeavors.”
Exciting Prospects Ahead
With his newly earned qualifications and trade certifications, Taylor is eagerly looking forward to attending college. He has been accepted at Jefferson State Community College and Grand Canyon University, where he plans to major in graphic design and animation.
The graduation ceremony was filled with emotion—lots of hugs and laughter flew about as graduates received congratulations from their proud families and supportive teachers. It wasn’t just Taylor who had exciting news; many graduates left the program with college acceptances, scholarships, and even job offers!
Building Strong Foundations
The YouthBuild program is made possible through partnerships with local organizations, including the Mechanical Craft Training Institute, JBS Mental Health, and the University of Alabama at Birmingham Minority Health and Health Equity Resource Center. These partnerships are vital as they offer participants hands-on training and exposure to various careers.
Graduation wasn’t the end; for some, it was just the beginning as they walked away with job offers from these partner companies following their graduation. Larry Williams, the chief housing and programs director, explained their mission beautifully: “Our mission is to help families become self-sufficient. Housing and education is a catalyst to do other things. We have people that we know need services, we know they have a need for economic empowerment, economic opportunities and the program does that.”
Looking Ahead
As Birmingham continues to flourish, initiatives like YouthBuild play a crucial role in shaping the future for young people who need it most. This program not only equips them with educational skills but also instills a sense of hope, connection, and possibility.
For Taylor and his fellow graduates, life’s exciting new chapters are just beginning, and there’s no doubt they are ready to take on the world!
