Krafty Academy's YouthBuild program turns opportunity youth (ages 16-24) into certified tradespeople—while they get paid. The intersection of media and skilled trades is where real economic mobility happens. We've restructured the funding model so participants earn while they learn, and our partners qualify for a $2,000 per-apprentice incentive. This is not a handout; it's a wage for the work you do while you train.

The YouthBuild Journey (12 Months)

Phase 1 — Healing & Stabilization (Weeks 1-12)

Clinical assessment, family engagement, and hip-hop therapy to create a stable foundation.

Phase 2 — Skill Discovery (Weeks 13-24)

Explore tracks in construction, green energy, media arts, and peer support. Earn foundational certifications like OSHA 10 and Mental Health First Aid.

Phase 3 — Earning (Weeks 25-36)

Paid apprenticeship ($13-$17/hr) on real film sets, construction sites, or hydroponic farms.

Phase 4 — Launch (Weeks 37-52)

Job placement, micro-grants for business startup, and transition into permanent career pathways.