The Youth Success Program at Northwest-Shoals Community College has been awarded funding of $500,000 for 2020-2021 by the Governor’s Local Workforce Areas and $234,249 for the YSP Pre-Apprenticeship program.

“This is such an exciting time for our program,” said Youth Success Program coordinator Kenneth Loveless. “With this funding, we can positively impact youth in northwest Alabama and help them reach their educational and employment goals.”

Over the past year, the YSP served 142 out-of-school youth, which surpassed the goal of 125. Through the help of the YSP program, 14 students earned their GEDs or high school diplomas; 36 entered college; 68 received a credential or certificate; and 28 obtained employment.

YSP Pre-Apprenticeship served 108 in-school/out-of-school youth, which surpassed the original goal of 34.

During the pilot year of the program, 50 students earned their GEDs or high school diplomas; seven students were enrolled in dual enrollment pre-apprenticeship classes at NW-SCC; and 71 received credentials/certification.

YSP at NW-SCC serves out-of-school youth ranging in age from 16-24. YSP identifies and assists those who have been unable to complete their education and need guidance and assistance deciding between continuing their education or seeking additional training toward employment.

The YSP Pre-Apprenticeship serves in-school and out-of-school youth with barriers to educational completion. The program focuses on juniors and seniors who are interested in completing industry recognized certifications, being placed in an apprenticeship program and ultimately working in advanced manufacturing.

YSP offers services such as job skills/employment training, GED support, college enrollment assistance, tutoring and mentoring. Through the pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs, YSP participants will receive intergenerational mentoring, job shadowing and paid work experiences while also completing academic courses toward a credential in high growth/high demand industries.

For more information on the NW-SCC Youth Success Program, call 256-331-5262 or visit https://www.nwscc.edu/about-nw-scc/college-departments/grant-programs/youth-success-program.