The mission of YouthBuild Boston (YBB) is to empower and assist underserved young people from the Boston area with the essential social, vocational, academic, and life skills necessary to navigate a positive pathway to self-sufficiency and neighborhood responsibility.

Our theory of change: “Young people, when empowered with the skills and education necessary to improve their quality of life, will realize that they can play a leadership role in strengthening their communities.”

YBB works with young adults in the Boston area to develop personal and career skills using innovative programs in the building trades, from design and construction to the green industry. YBB enhances the lives and skills of their students, encouraging them to work with integrity, confidence, discipline and aspiration. More than 1,000 graduates have been equipped with the professional skills and tools necessary to lead successful lives and further their education.

While YBB promotes the core values of youth development and community service, it stands out as an innovative non-profit offering a hands-on approach to building trades training. Students are put on a career path through highly successful programs, from construction training to sustainable landscape design. Not only do these programs provide opportunities in vocational education, but also academic instruction, counseling and other life skills that readily strengthen and prepare students for the workforce upon graduation.

As a highly respected non-profit in Roxbury, Massachusetts founded in 1990, YBB teaches young adults the importance of serving the community. Each project has a service element, and YBB has completed 90 units of housing since its inception. YBB produces more than just skilled workers. It helps to transform youth into young adults who are able to think creatively and critically in order to serve their communities and themselves.