Spokane Service Team - Youth Build offers two career tracks: Construction and Early Childhood Education.
Construction Track
Participants gain hands-on experience and earn industry-recognized certifications, including the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) credential—fully funded by the program. While building affordable housing and renovating community spaces, participants develop valuable trade skills and prepare for lasting careers in construction and related industries.
Construction training provided in partnership with Habitat for Humanity and SNAP.
Early Childhood Education Track
Participants learn foundational skills for working with children and families in early learning environments while earning certifications such as CPR/First Aid and Early Childhood Education (ECE) Basics— which builds there knowledge, confidence, and credentials needed for future roles in education, youth services, and child development.
Early Childhood Education training is provided in partnership with the West Valley Early Learning Center.
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Program Design
Youth Build Spokane members divide their time between the classroom and hands-on service projects, developing skills in education, construction, and leadership. Participants work toward their GED while gaining paid, real-world experience in their chosen career track—Construction or Early Childhood Education—and building the confidence and professionalism needed for long-term success.
Leadership is learned by doing. Participants serve their community through volunteer projects, team-based service, and civic engagement—often in partnership with the AmeriCorps Spokane Service Team. These experiences strengthen communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills while helping members discover their ability to create positive change. Every project becomes an opportunity to lead, give back, and grow both personally and professionally.
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Eligibility Requirements
To join Youth Build Spokane, you must:
- Be between 16 and 24 years old
- Be no longer enrolled in high school (or have a recommendation from your school counselor to enroll in Youth Build)
Meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Low-income individual or family
- Current or former foster care youth
- Justice-involved or formerly incarcerated
- Migrant youth
- Child of an incarcerated parent
- Youth experiencing homelessness or housing instability
- Other significant barriers to education or employment
How to Get Involved?
Ready to take the next step? Here’s how to join Youth Build Spokane:
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Attend an Information Session – Learn about the program, meet staff, and see if Youth Build is the right fit for you.
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Submit Required Documents – Bring your photo ID, birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of eligibility.
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Complete Mental Toughness – Participate in our short orientation and training period to demonstrate commitment and teamwork.
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Interview for the Next Cohort – Meet with staff to discuss your goals and secure your spot in the next Youth Build class.
Click here to complete the YouthBuild Application
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Long-term Success
Graduates leave YouthBuild Spokane with the skills, certifications, and support networks needed to achieve lasting success. Many go on to pursue college, apprenticeships, or careers in construction, early childhood education, and community service. Beyond employment, graduates continue to build assets, strengthen their families, and make a positive impact in their communities.
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