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SLATE outlines YouthBuild services, partners and participant outcomes as committee advances grant
Summary
SLATE staff described YouthBuild’s wraparound services, partners (Rankin Tech, SLDC, SLPS) and measurable outcomes — program leaders said nearly 200 alumni and high placement rates — while one committee member questioned city outsourcing to nonprofits; SLATE defended frontline support role.
SLATE staff used the committee hearing on Board Bill 63 to walk through program services, partner relationships and participant outcomes. "We cover 100% of the pay, 50% education, 40% occupational training, and 10% of leadership and development," a SLATE presenter said, summarizing the program's service model. Program staff described supports including case management, mentorship, HiSET assistance, professional clothing and hygiene kits, and connections to unions and civic engagement opportunities.
Staff and the bill sponsor emphasized that the program is broader than construction training: "This is construction plus," SLATE said, noting opportunities for CDL training and modular-home construction partnerships. Presenters tied the hands-on work to community rebuilding after recent tornado impacts and said the program gives young people opportunities to contribute to neighborhood recovery work.
A committee member asked why the city contracts with nonprofits rather than delivering services through government agencies. SLATE responded that nonprofit providers deliver frontline wraparound services — meeting immediate needs like clothing and hygiene, providing case management and connecting participants to other supports — and that some dedicated city funding (including ARPA funds) is winding down. Staff described SLATE as the "frontline" provider, assisting participants who arrive without essentials and connecting them to services.
SLATE confirmed the program serves participants aged 17 to 24 and said outreach and application materials will be updated once the grant funds are received and appropriated. The committee voted to approve the grant package and advance the bill to the full board.
