The twin challenges of poverty and crime are preventing many young people in the Trenton region from finishing even high school. Without a proper education, youth are not able to support themselves and the whole community suffers.
Isles’ Approach
Isles believes that Trenton area youth are energetic, capable
and eager to get an education, and it has developed the Isles’ YouthBuild Institute (IYI) for them as a path to a high school diploma, a career, and greater self-reliance.
Isles’ solutions: At IYI, students earn a state-recognized high school diploma; gain skills in construction, computer technology, and office administration; work on rehabilitating
at least one abandoned home in Trenton; and learn life skills
and leadership. Isles also helps students decide on careers and either find jobs or move on to higher education.
Founded in 1995, IYI is an alternative school and training center for individuals, ages 16 to 24, who have struggled in conventional school settings and/or have been incarcerated. IYI offers a “tough love,” and supportive environment for students to become independent, self-reliant citizens who will build strong communities. Many IYI graduates go on to quality jobs or higher education — and they remain outside of the justice system.
IYI students:
- Train for jobs in construction, computer technology, and office administration.
- Rehabilitate at least one abandoned home in Trenton each year, which is then sold to a first-time homebuyer.
- Learn life skills through classes in leadership development, finances, health education, and conflict management.
- Receive intensive, individualized counseling, case management services, and employment counseling.
Videos:
For more information on Isles’ YouthBuild Institute call 609.341.4751 or e-mail info@isles.org.