Mayor David M. Mason presented a proclamation on Dec. 2 recognizing YouthBuild and its work training 16–24-year-olds in academics, trades and career preparation.

Brandy Stewart, YouthBuild coordinator, told the commission the program is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor, runs for two years and combines classroom work with construction projects to build affordable housing and job skills. “We are funded by the Department of Labor. We serve 16 to 24 year olds who have either dropped out of school or are at risk of dropping out of school,” Stewart said. She said 100 people applied this year and the program accepts roughly 30 students annually.

Stewart described the program’s structure: nine months of classroom instruction that yields high-school diplomas and industry credentials such as CPR and OSHA, followed by hands-on construction work and a year of post-graduation follow-up for job placement or education. A student in the room answered when asked what motivates them to attend: “Family.”

Mayor Mason read the proclamation text and presented commemorative coins to YouthBuild participants. The proclamation praised the program’s contributions to community service and workforce development and designated Dec. 2, 2025, as YouthBuild Day in Enid.

No commission action was required beyond the ceremonial proclamation. Commissioners and staff encouraged continued community mentoring and outreach to expand opportunities for program graduates.

Next steps: program leaders said they welcome volunteer mentors and local speakers to support career exploration and civics curriculum discussions with participants.